This hearty casserole brings together savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked rice into one comforting and satisfying dish. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to make ahead and perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks!
Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a make-ahead freezer meal, this casserole ticks all the boxes. You’ll also find that many of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it a reliable go-to recipe. For more comforting dishes, you can check out this classic creamy chicken bake from our curated collection on tinsuf.com.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or jasmine)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a separate pot, cook the rice with broth or water until tender (about 15 minutes). You can also use leftover cooked rice.
- In a large bowl, combine beef mixture, cooked rice, sour cream, cream soup, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
- Time & Servings:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven at 300°F until warmed through.
- This dish also freezes well — freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Tips & Variations:
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add steamed broccoli or green beans for extra veggies.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a cheesy twist.
- Add a layer of crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free cream soup and double-check the broth ingredients.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate until baking.