Ground Beef And Rice Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness

I absolutely love making Ground Beef And Rice Casserole for my family. This dish is not only hearty and satisfying, but it also offers a comforting blend of flavors that reminds me of home. The combination of perfectly cooked ground beef, fluffy rice, and just the right amount of seasoning creates a meal that everyone enjoys. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients in your pantry! With just a bit of prep time, I can have a delicious dinner ready for my loved ones.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-15T03:17:36.424Z

One day, while searching for a comforting dinner idea, I stumbled upon an amazing recipe for Ground Beef And Rice Casserole. I decided to give it a try, and it quickly became a family favorite. The key is to let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, this dish is even better the next day!

While cooking, I realized that browning the beef well adds depth to the flavor. Using a mix of herbs not only enhances the taste but also adds a wonderful aroma that fills the house. Each bite is a savory explosion that will leave you wanting more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for family dinners
Versatile enough to add your favorite vegetables
Delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Ground Beef And Rice Casserole lies in the quality of your ingredients. Opt for lean ground beef to prevent the dish from becoming greasy. While 80/20 beef works well, you can also use ground turkey for a leaner option. The fat content in the beef enriches the dish and helps build flavor; just make sure to drain any excess fat after browning to keep the casserole balanced.

The choice of rice is critical. Long-grain white rice absorbs the beef broth beautifully, becoming fluffy and tender by the end of baking. Brown rice can be used for a nuttier flavor, but remember to adjust the cooking time since it requires more liquid and a longer bake. Consider rinsing the rice beforehand to remove excess starch, ensuring the final texture is not too sticky.

Layering Flavors

The layering of flavors is essential in this casserole to create a harmonious dish. After browning the ground beef, adding the onion, bell pepper, and garlic not only contributes to the depth of flavor but also makes sure each bite is bursting with taste. Sautéing these vegetables until they are soft allows their natural sweetness to emerge, which balances the savory elements from the beef and broth.

Don't overlook the importance of seasoning! The combination of salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning not only enhances the beef but infuses the entire dish. Feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme to give it a personal touch. Remember, seasoning can always be adjusted at the end, but under-seasoning in the initial stages can make the final result lackluster.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables soften and the beef is fully cooked.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef and vegetable mixture with uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well.

Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.

Add Cheese

Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some spinach or your favorite vegetables into the casserole mix. Also, using leftover beef or rice can make this dish even quicker to prepare!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of my favorite things about this casserole is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can assemble the dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just be aware that the rice may absorb some of the broth while resting, so if the mixture seems too dry before baking, add a splash more broth to achieve the right consistency.

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal, but for larger portions, placing it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes will bring back its cheesy goodness. If freezing, consider portioning it out beforehand for convenience, and use an oven-safe dish that you can transfer straight from the freezer to the oven.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Ground Beef And Rice Casserole is a versatile base that allows for plenty of creativity. Adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli can brighten up the flavors and add extra nutrition. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, adapting it to your family's taste preferences.

For a cheesy variation, try mixing in some cream of mushroom soup or sour cream when combining the ingredients. This adds creaminess and richness, elevating the dish even further. Don’t hesitate to switch up the cheese; instead of shredded cheddar, a blend of Monterey Jack and pepper jack can add a delightful twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing and store it in an airtight container.