Hearty Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe

Comfort arrives in this hearty cheddar-crusted ground beef and rice casserole that promises warmth on any evening.

Cheesy layers meld perfectly with savory meat and fluffy grains.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet satisfying solutions for hungry families.

Unexpected spices and melted cheese create a delightful twist on classic casseroles.

Home cooks appreciate meals that come together quickly without sacrificing flavor.

Rich textures and bold seasonings make this dish a crowd-pleaser.

You’ll want to grab a second helping of this irresistible comfort food.

Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Comfort Food Classic

• Conquer Dinner Dilemma: Solve mealtime challenges with this hearty one-dish wonder that combines protein, grains, and cheese in a satisfying solution.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like ground turkey for beef or add vegetables to make the recipe uniquely yours without complicated modifications.
• Family Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with familiar flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, this casserole guarantees clean plates and happy faces around the dinner table.
• Simple Skill Level: Requires basic cooking techniques perfect for beginner home cooks or busy parents wanting a delicious meal without complex preparation steps.

Ingredients To Prepare Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef And Rice Casserole

• Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that forms the protein base of the casserole.

• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, sharp flavor and creates a golden, melty crust on top of the casserole.
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang to the rice and beef mixture.

• Onion, Garlic: Create a flavor foundation and add depth to the ground beef mixture.

• Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture and a slightly sweet, tangy base to the beef mixture.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the savory flavor of the ground beef.
• Smoked Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: Provide warmth, depth, and essential seasoning to the dish.

• Rice: Serves as a substantial and filling base for the casserole.

• Fresh Parsley, Green Onions: Offer a pop of color and fresh flavor to finish the dish.

• Olive Oil or Butter: Used for sautéing the vegetables and preventing sticking.

Easy Steps To Make Cheddar-Crusted Beef And Rice Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Beef Base

Grab a large skillet and drizzle in olive oil. Toss in diced onions and let them dance around until they turn soft and translucent.

Sprinkle in minced garlic and let it sizzle briefly. Add ground beef and break it into small crumbles while cooking.

Once browned, drain any extra fat.

• Tomato sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Let the mixture simmer for a couple minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Build the Casserole Foundation

• Cooked rice
• Sour cream
• Half of the shredded cheddar cheese

Fold in the beef mixture until everything is well mixed. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 4: Create the Cheesy Golden Top

Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole. Slide into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions.

Slice and enjoy your comforting meal!

Tips To Nail Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef And Rice Casserole

• Remove excess grease completely to prevent a soggy casserole and ensure a crisp, delicious texture.
• Use brown rice for added nutrition or try cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that keeps the dish light and healthy.
• Add a splash of red wine or beef broth while simmering to enhance the meat's richness and create more complex taste layers.
• Let the casserole rest briefly after baking so the cheese sets and creates a beautiful golden, crispy top that's irresistibly appealing.
• Prepare the entire casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready – perfect for busy weeknight meals or meal prep.

Tasty Variations To Try On Cheddar-Crusted Beef Casserole

• Tex-Mex Beef Casserole: Replace tomato sauce with salsa, add diced green chiles, and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy southwestern flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Rice Skillet: Swap ground beef for ground lamb, use feta cheese, add oregano and diced tomatoes, incorporating Mediterranean herbs and spices.
• Vegetarian Quinoa Bake: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils, use vegetable broth instead of meat, and choose a plant-based cheese alternative for a protein-packed meatless version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Casserole: Replace rice with riced cauliflower, keep the beef and cheese components, reducing overall carbohydrate content for keto-friendly dieters.

Pairing Ideas That Match Cheddar-Crusted Beef And Rice Casserole

Toss mixed greens with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and light vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy casserole with fresh, tangy notes.

Prepare zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted with herbs to add nutritious and colorful side that complements the hearty main dish.

Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the casserole’s richness and provide a refreshing contrast.

Prepare quick cucumber pickles with dill and vinegar to add zesty, acidic crunch that brightens the meal’s dense flavors.

Storage Tips To Keep Cheddar-Crusted Beef And Rice Fresh

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer casserole to freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Stays good for up to 3 months.
• Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely through, removing foil during last 5 minutes for cheese crispiness.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb work great and offer similar texture and flavor profiles.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this casserole reheats well and stays delicious for 34 days when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

• Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free tomato sauce and check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free to adapt the recipe.

• What sides complement this casserole best?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli pair wonderfully with this hearty main dish.

Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Cheddar-crusted ground beef and rice casserole brings comfort and warmth to dinner tables with its hearty layers of seasoned meat and cheesy goodness. Families will savor each bite of this classic one-dish meal that combines simple ingredients into a satisfying culinary experience you won’t want to miss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef (lean or 80/20 for juicier flavor)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for the best flavor)

Starch and Vegetables:

• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or even cauliflower rice)
• 1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional but highly recommended)

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 1/2 cup sour cream (adds richness and creaminess)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (for a subtle tangy base)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (deepens the beefy flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds warmth and depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sauteing)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
2. In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until aromatic.
3. Introduce ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into crumbles while cooking until completely browned. Drain any excess fat from the meat.
4. Season the beef mixture with tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove from heat.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Fold in the seasoned beef mixture until thoroughly incorporated.
6. Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent coverage.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole, creating a complete cheese layer.
8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbling crust.
9. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a vibrant finish before serving.

Notes

• Drain beef thoroughly to prevent a soggy casserole and ensure a crispy cheese topping.
• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version.
• Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to boost nutritional value and add a nutty flavor.
• Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or pepper jack for varied taste profiles.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 475 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 33 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg