Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole delivers rich, cheesy goodness in every bite. Easy to make and perfect for a cozy, family-friendly meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this dish a go-to for quick meals.
Family-Friendly – A delicious, cheesy, and hearty meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
Customizable – Easily adapt with different cheeses, proteins, or add vegetables.
Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples for a filling and economical meal.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20 for juicier flavor)
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or even cauliflower rice)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for the best flavor)
½ cup sour cream (adds richness and creaminess)
½ cup tomato sauce (for a subtle tangy base)
1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (deepens the beefy flavor)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds warmth and depth)
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the beef mixture until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra color and flavor, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Variations

Make it Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Swap the Protein – Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Vegetable Boost – Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.
Different Cheese – Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Cover with foil while baking if you prefer a softer, creamier texture. Also, adding a splash of broth can help retain moisture.

Can I use uncooked rice instead of cooked rice?

No, uncooked rice will not cook properly in this casserole. Pre-cooked rice ensures the right texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, simply ensure all ingredients (especially Worcestershire sauce) are gluten-free.

How can I add more protein?

Increase the amount of beef or add cooked beans for an extra protein boost.

Can I add eggs to this casserole?

Yes, whisking in an egg can help bind the mixture together more firmly.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven for the best texture or use the microwave for convenience.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream substitutes for a lactose-free version.

What other seasonings can I use?

Try adding cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning for a unique twist.

Conclusion

This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a perfect mix of comfort and convenience. With its rich flavors, cheesy topping, and customizable ingredients, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Whether you make it fresh or prepare it ahead, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite!

Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Cheesy and full of flavor, the Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for an easy and satisfying dinner

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20 for juicier flavor)
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or even cauliflower rice)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for the best flavor)
½ cup sour cream (adds richness and creaminess)
½ cup tomato sauce (for a subtle tangy base)
1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth)
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (deepens the beefy flavor)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds warmth and depth)
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the beef mixture until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra color and flavor, if desired.

Notes

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
For a spicy kick, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheddar cheese, ground beef, rice,