Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Name: Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Highlighted under: Hearty Cooking

I love making Ground Beef Rice Casserole for family dinners because it’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of ground beef, rice, and savory seasonings creates a comforting dish that everyone enjoys. Plus, it requires minimal prep time and is perfect for serving a crowd. I typically use whatever veggies I have on hand, adding a delightful crunch to the casserole. It’s a go-to recipe that always brings smiles to the dining table.

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:13:35.659Z

When I first tried making this Ground Beef Rice Casserole, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying it was. The enticing aroma filled the kitchen as it baked, and the taste exceeded my expectations! I found that using a mixture of spices really elevated the flavor, making each bite deliciously balanced between savory and slightly spicy.

One tip I discovered is to let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that each portion holds together nicely. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Comforting and filling, perfect for any family gathering
Versatile—customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings
One-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of any great casserole lies in its ingredients, and for this Ground Beef Rice Casserole, each component plays a crucial role. The ground beef provides a savory, hearty base while contributing protein to the dish. Choosing lean ground beef (around 80/20) ensures a balanced flavor without an excess of grease. Combine that with long-grain rice, which cooks evenly and absorbs the beef broth beautifully, creating a cohesive texture that makes each bite satisfying.

The addition of diced tomatoes not only introduces a tangy element that brightens the dish but also adds moisture during cooking—crucial for ensuring the rice doesn't dry out. Frozen mixed vegetables are an excellent choice due to their convenience; they add color, nutrition, and texture without the need for extra chopping or prep time. If you prefer fresh veggies, consider using bell peppers or zucchini. Just remember to sauté them briefly before mixing in to enhance their flavors.

Cooking Techniques

When browning the ground beef, use medium heat and break it apart with a spatula until it's nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain the excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. After adding the onions and garlic, cook until the onions are soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the initial flavor base and allows the garlic to infuse the oil with its aromatic essence.

A vital technique in assembling the casserole is ensuring an even distribution of ingredients. After mixing your beef, rice, and vegetables with the liquid, check the consistency; it should be somewhat loose before baking. If it seems dry, add a splash more beef broth. The foil-covered baking phase traps steam, which helps cook the rice thoroughly, while the final uncovered bake melts the cheese to a bubbling golden perfection.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious Ground Beef Rice Casserole:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Make sure you have all ingredients prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Ground Beef Rice Casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure even cooking for your casserole.

Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, frozen vegetables, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Once you’ve completed these steps, you have a warming and inviting meal ready to enjoy.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment by adding different vegetables or spices based on your family’s preferences. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick meal later in the week.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great aspects of this Ground Beef Rice Casserole is its adaptability for make-ahead meals. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. If you're storing leftovers, cool the casserole completely and transfer it to an airtight container; it will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Assemble it but do not bake. Wrap it snugly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, though you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Ground Beef Rice Casserole, I recommend pairing it with a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well, or you could serve it with buttery corn on the cob for a comforting meal. Adding a dollop of sour cream on top or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate the presentation and add a bright contrast to the casserole's hearty flavors.

If you're looking to elevate the dish further, feel free to experiment with your cheese toppings. While cheddar offers a classic flavor, consider mixing in some Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice. You could also add a layer of crispy fried onion rings on top for a crunchy finish that will delight your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice may require additional cooking time and liquid. Adjust accordingly.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Just add extra baking time when reheating.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Make sure it cools completely before sealing in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.