Looking for a comforting, filling, and flavor-packed meal that the whole family will love? This Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese is a perfect weeknight dinner choice that blends tender ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, vibrant vegetables, and gooey melted cheese into one delicious dish. It’s a great way to use pantry staples and transform them into a warm, nourishing meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also reheats beautifully—making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy dish, this casserole brings together taste, texture, and wholesome ingredients in one hearty bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Stir in diced bell pepper, carrots, and peas (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
- Add in uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until evenly combined.
- Bring the mixture to a light simmer, then remove from heat.
- Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
This hearty casserole is not just packed with flavor, but also gives you the satisfying feel of a home-cooked meal without the fuss. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can add corn, green beans, mushrooms, or even substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred. The cheesy topping takes it to the next level, making each bite irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving comfort food, this beef and rice casserole is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.