If you are searching for a soul-satisfying, hearty dish that brings comfort and a touch of cheesy indulgence, this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, seasoned ground beef perfectly mingled with fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and crowned with a golden, bubbly cheddar crust — it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that makes this casserole a timeless crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, easy-to-find ingredients come together beautifully in this casserole, each playing a crucial role in crafting layers of flavor, creaminess, and satisfying texture. From the lean ground beef to the sharp cheddar, every item is essential for that perfect harmony.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean for a healthier yet juicy base to your casserole.
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked): Absorbs flavors and ensures a hearty, comforting bulk.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and complexity.
- 2 cups beef broth: Infuses moisture and a savory backbone.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star that guarantees a rich, melty topping.
- ½ cup sour cream: Creates a creamy, tangy texture within the filling.
- ½ cup milk: Lightens the creaminess without overpowering flavors.
- ½ tsp paprika: Offers a gentle smoky note and vibrant color.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances every element’s natural taste.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Delivers a mild, pleasant bite to balance the creaminess.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking): Helps brown the beef and soften the onions perfectly.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional): Adds a delightful crunch to the cheese crust if you want extra texture.
How to Make Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is vital to prevent sticking and helps in achieving a beautiful golden crust once baked.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Cook the white rice following the package instructions until it’s nicely fluffy. Perfectly cooked rice is the backbone of this casserole, adding both texture and substance.
Step 3: Sauté the Beef and Aromatics
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them together until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent and fragrant—about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Reduce heat to medium, then add the cooked rice, beef broth, sour cream, milk, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors. Bring this mixture gently to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, which will keep the casserole wonderfully moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This ensures every piece you scoop has a balanced mix of ingredients.
Step 6: Add the Cheddar Crust
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you’re a fan of a little extra crunch and texture, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs on top. This is where the casserole earns its signature golden, crispy crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has developed a beautiful golden crust. This final step melds all the flavors and textures into a hearty, comforting dish.
Step 8: Let it Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything set so each serving holds together neatly, delivering that dense, luscious bite you crave.
How to Serve Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top to add a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of jalapeño can also add exciting contrasts.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing balance. Roasted or steamed veggies like green beans or broccoli also complement the dish perfectly, keeping the meal well-rounded and nutritious.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra cheddar and broil for a minute to create personalized mini crusts. You can also spoon it over baked potatoes for a hearty, loaded side or fill bell peppers with the mixture to make colorful, handheld presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe freezes very well. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover the casserole loosely with foil to retain moisture and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 20 to 25 minutes, uncovering during the last few minutes to refresh the cheddar crust.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and has a firmer texture, which will slightly alter the casserole’s consistency but add a pleasant nutty flavor.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat substitute or use sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly version.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole fully and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining on a busy schedule.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt works beautifully as a tangy, creamy substitute without changing the flavor profile too much.
How do I get a crispier cheese crust?
Adding the optional breadcrumbs on top enhances the texture greatly. Also, broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking can create an extra-crispy, golden cheese topping.
Final Thoughts
I can say with all my heart that this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe has become a beloved staple in my home for good reason. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with comforting flavors, and topped with that irresistible cheesy crust that everyone adores. Whether you’re cooking for family or a group of friends, this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, inviting smiles and seconds. I truly encourage you to give it a try — it might just become your new weeknight favorite!
Print
Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. It features seasoned ground beef combined with tender cooked rice, enveloped in a creamy mixture of sour cream and milk, then topped with sharp cheddar cheese and optionally breadcrumbs. Baked until bubbly and golden, this casserole offers a rich blend of flavors and textures that satisfy both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Rice and Sauce
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the Rice: Cook the white rice according to the package instructions until tender. Set aside.
- Prepare the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are softened.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, beef broth, sour cream, milk, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet with the meat mixture. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer to meld flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and rice mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the dish.
- Add the Cheddar: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. For added texture and a crispy topping, optionally sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting casserole warm!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese.
- Substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier option, but increase the cooking time accordingly.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunch; use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispness.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make this dish gluten-free, omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
