Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Name: Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional); 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef Rice Casserole for my family. It's one of those dishes that brings everyone together, filled with hearty flavors and comforting textures. The combination of seasoned beef, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that never disappoints. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, which is a huge bonus on busy weeknights. I can't wait for you to try this recipe and see how it becomes a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:05:34.668Z

Many years ago, I stumbled upon a Ground Beef Rice Casserole recipe that changed my weeknight dinners forever. It's a fantastic blend of hearty ingredients that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart. I remember the first time I made it; the savory aroma filled the kitchen, instantly creating a sense of comfort.

What makes this dish truly special is the way the rice absorbs the flavors of the beef and seasoning as it bakes. I often like to add a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking, creating a deliciously melty crust that everyone raves about. It's a home-style dish guaranteed to be a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors that everyone enjoys
Comforting and filling – perfect for family dinners
Easy to make with minimal prep time

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this Ground Beef Rice Casserole is undeniably the ground beef. Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish wholesome, or go for a higher fat content if you're looking for richer flavor. Browning the beef with onions is crucial, as it develops a deep, savory base; cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.

Rice is another key player in this recipe, absorbing the flavors from the beef and broth. Using uncooked rice allows it to absorb moisture as it bakes, delivering a fluffy texture. Short-grain rice, like Arborio, can offer a creamier consistency, while long-grain varieties like basmati will remain fluffier. Just be cautious not to substitute instant rice, which requires different cook times and moisture ratios.

The creamy element of this dish comes from the cream of mushroom soup. It not only adds richness but also helps to bind the ingredients together. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using a homemade white sauce or a can of low-sodium cream soup. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, swapping the beef for plant-based ground meat or lentils can yield a delicious and filling casserole.

Perfecting Your Casserole

While baking, covering the dish with aluminum foil is integral during the first half of the cooking time. This creates steam, which helps to cook the rice evenly without drying out the ingredients. After 30 minutes, removing the foil and adding cheese enhances flavor and promotes a delightful, bubbly finish. When cheese is melted and golden, about 10–15 minutes later, it’s ready for serving.

Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving is crucial as it allows the rice to absorb extra liquid and the layers to set, making for easy cutting and serving. If reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth before microwaving for a couple of minutes to maintain moisture. Alternatively, bake it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, covered with foil, to revive its creaminess.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble everything and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just extend the baking time slightly to account for the cold ingredients. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy evenings or gatherings, saving time while still delivering a homemade experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Ground Beef Rice Casserole:

Casserole Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your casserole:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and frozen peas. Mix well.

Transfer to baking dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and sprinkle cheese on top if using, then bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm and hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers with the beef. You can also adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. If you want a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Ground Beef Rice Casserole with a fresh side salad to balance the meal, providing a delightful crunch and lightness against the hearty casserole. Try a mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish. Alternatively, steamed broccoli or green beans can offer a vibrant color and additional nutrients.

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows for personalization—topping some with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for contrasting textures. You can also sprinkle freshly chopped herbs, like parsley or chives, on top for an added burst of freshness just before serving.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize the casserole by incorporating vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, corn, or diced tomatoes can seamlessly blend in, enhancing nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to sauté harder vegetables first to ensure they’re adequately cooked by the end of baking.

If you're looking to spice things up, try adding a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture to give it some heat. Alternatively, a bit of barbecue sauce or Worcestershire sauce could deepen the flavor profile, creating a unique twist on the classic casserole.

For a creamy variation, dollop some sour cream or cream cheese into the mix for a tangy finish. Just fold it in gently after combining all the ingredients—this addition can make your casserole even richer and keep everyone reaching for seconds!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer baking period.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check your rice brand for any gluten additives.