Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s hearty, comforting, and just the right amount of cheesy, look no further than this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Picture this: savory, seasoned ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, and that golden, melt-in-your-mouth cheddar crust on top that gets crisp in all the right places. It’s like a warm hug on a plate—easy to make, and even easier to fall in love with. This casserole is the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over again, especially when you’re craving something satisfying but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Goodness: The cheddar crust is the showstopper here. It forms a crispy, cheesy top that contrasts perfectly with the tender beef and rice beneath. Each bite is the perfect balance of crunchy and creamy.

Quick and Easy: This casserole is a total weeknight win. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this on the table in no time. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes both cooking and cleanup a breeze.

Hearty and Filling: Ground beef and rice are a classic comfort food combo. This dish is filling enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites, making it perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd.

Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, from picky eaters to the more adventurous. The cheesy top is always a hit, and the flavors are simple and comforting.

Versatile: You can easily make this casserole your own by adding extra veggies, swapping in different cheeses, or even playing with seasonings to suit your tastes. It’s a recipe that welcomes a bit of creativity.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this savory, cheesy casserole:

Ground Beef:

The heart of this casserole. It adds that rich, savory flavor and makes the dish hearty and satisfying.

Rice:

Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. It cooks up tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the beef and seasonings.

Onion and Garlic:

For the base of the flavor, these two ingredients bring a savory, aromatic depth that complements the beef beautifully.

Beef Broth:

This adds moisture and extra flavor to the rice and beef mixture, helping everything come together in perfect harmony.

Cheddar Cheese:

The star of the crust! Shredded cheddar melts beautifully to form a crispy, golden topping that’s the perfect finish to this casserole.

Sour Cream:

This helps to bind everything together and adds a touch of creaminess to the overall dish.

Seasonings:

Salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika or cayenne for a touch of heat, if you like. These simple seasonings bring out the savory goodness in the beef and rice.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking and put together this delicious casserole!

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then add the onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Add the beef broth to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the rice, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the broth. Stir in the sour cream and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or cayenne if desired.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then top with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions and serve hot. This dish is perfect on its own or paired with a simple green salad for some freshness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6-8
Calories per serving: 350-400 (depending on portion size and specific ingredients)

(Note: Nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you’re looking to pair it with something else, here are a few serving suggestions:

Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini for a nutritious and colorful side dish.

Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread would complement this casserole beautifully. Perfect for sopping up any extra cheesy goodness.

Steamed Green Beans: If you want a veggie side that’s easy and tasty, green beans are a great choice. Their slight crunch pairs nicely with the creamy casserole.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time by assembling it the night before and refrigerating it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and bake as usual. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Swap the Cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for a different flavor.

Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some veggies? Add frozen peas, spinach, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients.

Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture before baking.

Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A1: Yes, you can use brown rice! However, it will require a longer cooking time, so be sure to adjust accordingly. You may also need a little extra broth to help it cook through.

Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
A2: Yes! This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.

Q3: Can I make this casserole without sour cream?
A3: Absolutely! You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar creaminess, or simply omit it for a lighter version of the dish.

Q4: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A4: Yes, ground turkey or chicken would work as great substitutes. Just make sure to season them well to bring out their flavor!

Q5: Can I add extra cheese?
A5: Definitely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add extra cheese to the top or mix it into the casserole for a gooey, cheesy delight.

Q6: How do I reheat leftovers?
A6: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can cover it with foil to keep the top from getting too crispy.

Q7: Can I use a different type of meat?
A7: Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground pork, lamb, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

Q8: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A8: Add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick!

Q9: Can I add more vegetables?
A9: Absolutely! Feel free to toss in veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just make sure to sauté them first to release any moisture.

Q10: Can I make this casserole in a smaller baking dish?
A10: Yes, you can use a smaller dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as it may bake faster in a smaller pan.

Conclusion

This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the kind of dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re looking to feed your family on a busy weeknight or impress friends at a casual dinner gathering. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, and it’s so easy to make. Once you taste that crispy cheddar crust, you’ll be hooked. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly comforting and satisfying meal!

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