I have to tell you, this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is my ultimate comfort food. The first time I made it, my kitchen smelled like pure magic, and the cheesy crust had everyone drooling! It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavors that come together effortlessly.
I love how it transforms simple ingredients into a showstopper meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is guaranteed to steal the show. Trust me, once you try it, it’s bound to become one of your regular go-to recipes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This casserole ticks all the boxes, from taste to convenience. Here’s why it’s a true crowd-pleaser:
1. Easy to Make
You don’t have to be a pro in the kitchen to nail this recipe. The steps are simple, beginner-friendly, and super quick. You’ll love spending less time cooking and more time savoring every bite.
2. Loaded with Flavor
Every spoonful of this casserole bursts with cheesy, savory goodness. The combination of hearty ground beef, creamy rice, and that golden cheddar crust makes this dish absolutely irresistible.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or meal prep session, this casserole rises to the occasion. It’s versatile enough to fit in anywhere and always gets rave reviews.
4. Budget-Friendly
This recipe doesn’t call for fancy or expensive ingredients. It uses pantry staples, making it a wallet-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
5. Customizable
Want to add some heat with chili flakes? Prefer extra veggies mixed in? You can tweak this dish to suit your taste and dietary preferences, making it as unique as you like!
Cooking Time
Here’s how long it’ll take to whip up this casserole:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s your ingredient checklist for this cheesy comfort meal:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives.
- Healthier Option: Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
- Spicy Edge: Add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for extra kick.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet – To sauté the ground beef and onion.
- Mixing Bowl – For combining all the casserole ingredients.
- Baking Dish – To assemble and bake your masterpiece.
- Cheese Grater – For freshly grated cheddar goodness.
How to Make Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Making this recipe is as therapeutic as eating it. 🧡 Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a comfort-packed dish ready in no time!
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is key to an evenly baked, golden casserole.
Cook the Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened. Drain any excess fat. 🌟
Mix the Ingredients
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked rice, sour cream, tomato sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients blend together beautifully. The creamy filling will smell heavenly! 🍚
Assemble the Casserole
Grease your baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Pour in the beef and rice mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This step brings the signature cheesy crust to life! 🧀
Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden. The aroma will have everyone lining up at the kitchen door. 😍
Serve Warm
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, scoop it onto plates, and enjoy the cheesy goodness! 🍽️
Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some handy tips to make your casserole even better:
1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Grating your own cheese ensures it melts better and gives you a smoother crust. Store-bought pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that hinder melting.
2. Season to Taste
Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! Taste the filling mixture before baking and adjust seasoning for the perfect balance of flavors.
3. Add Veggies
Sneak in diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients without compromising flavor. Trust me, even picky eaters will approve!
4. Prep Ahead
Cook the beef and rice ahead of time if you’re short on time. Assemble everything later for a quicker meal!
How to Serve Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with all sorts of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
- Side Salad: A fresh, tangy salad balances the richness of the casserole. Think arugula or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls to mop up that cheesy goodness.
- Steamed Veggies: Roasted or steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans make a colorful complement.
- On Its Own: It’s hearty enough to stand alone, garnished with parsley and served straight from the baking dish!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional value:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 30g
Make Ahead and Storage
This casserole is perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly:
If you want to save time, assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Once cooked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months by tightly wrapping it. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Now that you’ve got the recipe, tips, and serving ideas, it’s time to treat yourself to this ultimate comfort food. Happy cooking!
Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
I have to tell you, this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is my ultimate comfort food. The first time I made it, my kitchen smelled like pure magic, and the cheesy crust had everyone drooling! It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavors that come together effortlessly.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is key to an evenly baked, golden casserole.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked rice, sour cream, tomato sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients blend together beautifully. The creamy filling will smell heavenly!
- Grease your baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Pour in the beef and rice mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This step brings the signature cheesy crust to life!
- Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden. The aroma will have everyone lining up at the kitchen door.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, scoop it onto plates, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Notes
- Grating your own cheese ensures it melts better and gives you a smoother crust. Store-bought pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that hinder melting.
- Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! Taste the filling mixture before baking and adjust seasoning for the perfect balance of flavors.
- Sneak in diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients without compromising flavor. Trust me, even picky eaters will approve!
- Cook the beef and rice ahead of time if you’re short on time. Assemble everything later for a quicker meal!
