There’s nothing quite like a cheesy, hearty casserole to bring warmth and satisfaction to a dinner table. This cheddar-crusted ground beef and rice casserole is the perfect combination of savory beef, fluffy rice, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese, all topped with a crispy, golden crust. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a comforting meal for the whole family, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

Casseroles have been a beloved staple in home cooking for generations. They offer a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare, bake, and serve. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. By using affordable ingredients like ground beef, rice, and frozen vegetables, you get a budget-friendly dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for meal prep, as it stores and reheats beautifully.

If you’re a fan of classic comfort food, you might also enjoy learning about the history of casseroles—a dish that has evolved through cultures worldwide. And for those who love experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe offers plenty of customization options, from swapping proteins to adjusting the cheese blend for an extra kick.

Would you top yours with extra cheese for even more melty goodness? 😋 Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheddar-crusted ground beef and rice casserole isn’t just another easy dinner—it’s a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing meal that checks all the right boxes. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, looking for a budget-friendly option, or just craving something cheesy and satisfying, this casserole has something for everyone.

✅ Quick & Easy

• No complicated steps—just brown the beef, mix the ingredients, and bake.
• Minimal prep and hands-off baking make it perfect for busy weeknights.

💰 Budget-Friendly

• Uses simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef, rice, and frozen vegetables.
• Makes large portions, so you can stretch your grocery budget further.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly

• Cheesy, beefy, and comforting—kids and adults alike love it!
• Can be customized to suit different taste preferences.

🍽️ Great for Meal Prep

• Stores and reheats well—perfect for leftovers or freezer meals.
• Make a double batch and freeze one for later.

🔄 Easily Customizable

• Swap the protein, cheese, or veggies to fit your dietary needs.
• Try using different cheese varieties for a unique twist!

If you’re a fan of classic comfort food recipes, you’ll love checking out Pinterest’s best comfort food ideas for more delicious inspiration. Ready to see what goes into this irresistible dish? Let’s break down the ingredients!

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this cheddar-crusted ground beef and rice casserole, you’ll need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together for a delicious and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of each component and why it’s essential to the recipe.

🥩 Casserole Base: The Foundation of Flavor

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides a savory, meaty base that’s rich in flavor and protein. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Learn more about ground beef cooking techniques to enhance flavor and texture.
• Diced Onion (1 small): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the dish with a bold, aromatic kick.

🌿 Seasonings: Enhancing the Flavor

• Salt (1 tsp): Brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp): Adds a mild heat.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): Gives the casserole a smoky, slightly spicy flavor. Learn about paprika and its different types to find the best one for your dish.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Infuses a hint of earthiness.

🥣 Liquid & Binder: The Creamy, Moist Texture

• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Adds a rich, creamy texture and enhances the umami flavor. Substitute with cream of chicken soup for a slightly different taste.
• Beef Broth (1 cup): Helps cook the uncooked rice and adds depth to the casserole’s flavor.

🍚 Carbs & Vegetables: Adding Texture & Balance

• Uncooked White Rice (1 cup): Absorbs the savory broth and seasonings, making it soft and fluffy. If you prefer, swap for brown rice, but note that it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Read more about the science behind cooking rice to get perfect results.
• Frozen Peas & Carrots (1 cup): A convenient way to add color, texture, and nutrients. You can replace with fresh vegetables if preferred.

🧀 Cheese & Topping: The Irresistible Cheddar Crust

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups + ½ cup for topping): The star ingredient that makes this casserole rich, gooey, and satisfying. Try mixing in some Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor. Check out cheese lover’s recipes for more cheesy inspiration!
• Crushed Crackers or Breadcrumbs (½ cup): Creates the crispy, golden crust on top. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Melted Butter (2 tbsp): Helps bind the topping and adds buttery richness.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in making this cheddar-crusted beef & rice casserole a dish that’s flavorful, hearty, and comforting. Now that you know what goes into it, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking instructions!

How to Make Cheddar-Crusted Beef & Rice Casserole

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go step by step to create this cheesy, comforting casserole. The process is quick and easy, requiring minimal prep work before it all comes together in the oven.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once the casserole is assembled.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
• Drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy casserole.
• Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want even more depth of flavor, try browning the beef in a cast-iron skillet. Learn more about ground beef cooking techniques for the best results.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked beef mixture.
• Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked rice, and frozen peas and carrots. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

✅ Why Uncooked Rice? Using uncooked rice allows it to absorb the broth and seasonings while baking, making it extra flavorful!

Step 4: Assemble in a Baking Dish

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
• Pour the beef and rice mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Layer

• Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
• The cheese will melt into the casserole while baking, creating that gooey, cheesy texture we all love.

🧀 Looking for the best cheese for casseroles? Check out different cheddar varieties to find your perfect match!

Step 6: Prepare the Crunchy Topping

• In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter.
• Sprinkle this buttery, crunchy mixture over the cheddar cheese layer.
• Finally, top it off with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

• Cover the baking dish with foil to trap moisture and cook the rice properly.
• Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 8: Rest & Serve

• Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to scoop out.
• Serve warm and enjoy the delicious, cheesy, and hearty flavors!

🍽️ Looking for more comfort food recipes? Check out Pinterest’s best comfort food ideas for more inspiration!

Now that you’ve mastered the cooking process, let’s explore some expert tips to make this casserole even better!

Tips for the Best Casserole

Making the perfect cheddar-crusted ground beef and rice casserole is easy, but a few extra tips can take it to the next level. From choosing the right cheese to ensuring a crispy topping, here’s how to get the best results every time!

🧀 Use Freshly Grated Cheese

• Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• For the best gooey, melty texture, grate a block of cheddar cheese yourself.

🍚 Choose the Right Rice

• Long-grain white rice works best because it absorbs liquid evenly and stays fluffy.
• Brown rice is an option but requires extra liquid and a longer cooking time.

Want to learn more about rice cooking techniques? Read about how different rice varieties absorb liquid to perfect your casseroles!

🍽️ Don’t Overcook the Beef

• Since the casserole will continue cooking in the oven, only brown the beef until no longer pink.
• Overcooking can lead to dry or tough meat.

🧄 Enhance the Flavor with Extra Seasonings

• If you love bolder flavors, try adding:
  • Worcestershire sauce for richness.
  • Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • A dash of garlic powder for an extra boost.

🔥 Let the Casserole Rest Before Serving

• Allowing the dish to rest for at least 5 minutes helps the rice finish absorbing moisture and prevents it from falling apart when scooped.

🥄 Customize the Texture

• If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the beef broth by ¼ cup.
• For a creamier consistency, mix in ½ cup of sour cream before baking.

With these simple tips, you’ll get the perfect cheesy, crispy, and flavorful casserole every time. Now, let’s talk about how you can customize this dish with different ingredients!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

One of the best things about this cheddar-crusted ground beef and rice casserole is how easily you can customize it. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option, a different protein, or a new flavor twist, here are some great ways to modify this recipe to fit your preferences.

🥩 Meat Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: A leaner alternative with a milder flavor.
• Italian Sausage: Adds a bold, seasoned kick—try mild or spicy!
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: A great way to use up leftover chicken.

Curious about how different meats affect the texture and taste? Check out ground beef cooking techniques for expert tips on working with different proteins.

🧀 Cheese Swaps for a Different Flavor Profile

• Monterey Jack: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy flavor.
• Pepper Jack: If you love spice, this is the perfect alternative.
• Swiss or Gruyère: For a nuttier, more complex flavor.

Want more cheesy inspiration? Browse cheese lover’s recipes to find your perfect pairing.

🥕 Vegetable Add-Ins

• Bell Peppers: Add sweetness and a slight crunch.
• Mushrooms: Enhance the umami flavor of the dish.
• Spinach or Kale: A great way to sneak in extra greens.

🍚 Low-Carb & Keto Version

• Swap white rice for cauliflower rice to cut down on carbs.
• Reduce the beef broth to prevent the dish from getting watery.

🌿 Gluten-Free Alternative

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of crackers.
• Ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free (or make your own). 
  

  Storage & Reheating Instructions

  Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions of the casserole for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a freezer-safe container or bag.
  Reheating: To reheat, bake the casserole at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.

  What to Serve with This Casserole

  Side Salad: A light and refreshing salad balances the richness of the casserole and adds some crunch.
  Garlic Bread: The perfect side for scooping up cheesy, meaty goodness and adding flavor to each bite.
  Steamed Vegetables: A simple, nutritious side dish that complements the casserole and adds extra vitamins and minerals to the meal.

  

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  FAQs

  Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
  A: Yes, you can swap white rice for brown rice. However, you’ll need to increase the liquid and adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

  Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
  A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready.

  Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
  A: You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade roux using butter, flour, and milk for a fresh alternative.

  Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
  A: Yes! You can cook it on low for 4-6 hours in a slow cooker for a hands-off, easy option.

Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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Pin Recipe

This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and creamy, melted cheddar cheese into a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare. The casserole is baked until golden and bubbly, creating a deliciously cheesy crust on top, while the inside remains moist and flavorful. Perfect for busy weeknights or making ahead, this hearty meal is sure to please the whole family.

• Author: Clara

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef 🥩
• 1 small onion, diced 🧅
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 1 tsp salt 🧂
• ½ tsp black pepper 🌶️
• 1 tsp smoked paprika 🌶️
• 1 tsp dried oregano 🌿
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup 🥣
• 1 cup beef broth 🥄
• 1 cup uncooked white rice 🍚
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots 🥕
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese 🧀

🔹 For Topping:

• ½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs 🍞
• 2 tbsp melted butter 🧈

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). 🔥

2️⃣ Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat.

3️⃣ Add Garlic & Seasoning: Stir in garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for another minute.

4️⃣ Mix the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked rice, peas, and carrots. Stir well.

5️⃣ Assemble in a Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.

6️⃣ Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

7️⃣ Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter. Sprinkle over the cheese. Add the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese on top.

8️⃣ Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

9️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting meal! 😋

 

Notes

• Customization: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this casserole, like diced bell peppers, onions, or corn, to boost the flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese: You can experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist. Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheddar cheeses for extra creaminess.
• Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the casserole a spicy kick if you like a bit of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom or chicken soup and ensure the rice is prepared according to your dietary preferences.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and baked just before serving, making it perfect for me