Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. Packed with savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and gooey cheddar cheese, this dish offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures. The rice cooks right in the casserole, making it a simple yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef and onion until beef is evenly browned; drain any excess fat.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked beef, rice, cream of mushroom soup, and water. Mix well and pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Cover dish with foil and bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
5. Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced green chilies or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the casserole for some extra heat.
• Cheese Options: Use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Stir in some peas, bell peppers, or carrots for added color and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Consider pre-cooking the brown rice before adding it to the casserole.
2. Can I use a different soup instead of cream of mushroom?
   Yes, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup or any other cream soup for a different flavor.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
   Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely before freezing. Reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like corn, peas, or carrots to make it a more balanced meal.
6. How do I prevent the rice from being too dry?
   Ensure the casserole is well-covered with foil during baking, and check the liquid content to ensure it doesn’t evaporate.
7. What can I use if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
   You can use cream of chicken or even make your own creamy base with butter, flour, and milk if you prefer homemade.
8. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook this casserole in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours. Add the cheese near the end to melt it on top.
9. Is this casserole gluten-free?
   No, the casserole contains cream of mushroom soup and rice which typically are not gluten-free. Use gluten-free soup and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
10. Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice, but be sure to adjust the liquid content as needed to prevent the casserole from becoming too soupy.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is an easy, hearty dish that brings together simple ingredients in a delicious way. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep, this comforting casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite.

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