Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant — about 5 to 6 minutes.
Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine. Once the beef is fully cooked and the flavors have mingled, drain off any excess grease.
Tip: Use lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) for less grease and a cleaner finish.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of sour cream
- ½ cup of milk
- The cooked ground beef mixture
- 1½ cups of cooked white rice
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
If you’re including the optional ½ cup of frozen peas, stir them in now. They’ll cook perfectly during baking and add a pop of color and sweetness.
Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
Shortcut: You can use leftover rice or even pre-cooked rice packets to save time.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly over the top for a golden, melty crust.
Optional Add-On: Sprinkle a handful of crushed butter crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after baking so it can set up — this makes serving easier and keeps it from falling apart on the plate.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the top with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Scoop and serve warm. This casserole pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed green beans
- Garlic bread
- Or simply on its own!
Make It Your Own
This casserole is easily customizable to suit your family’s preferences:
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add more veggies: Stir in mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- Use a different soup: Cream of chicken or cheddar soup also works great.
Storage and Reheating
- To store: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap the whole dish tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake covered at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food classic — warm, cheesy, filling, and family-approved. With its creamy sauce, savory beef, and satisfying rice base, it’s a dish that brings everyone back for seconds.
Keep it in your recipe rotation for an easy, reliable meal that comes together with minimal fuss and delivers maximum flavor — night after night.
