Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Name: Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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I absolutely love making this Ground Beef Rice Casserole for my family during busy weeknights. The rich flavors come together perfectly, creating a comforting dish that's both hearty and satisfying. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and savory vegetables always earns rave reviews around the dinner table. Plus, it's easy to customize based on what I have on hand, making it a go-to recipe that never gets boring. It’s a dish that I can prepare in under an hour, allowing us to enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss!

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:33:34.264Z

When I first tested this Ground Beef Rice Casserole, I wanted something that would warm my family's hearts, and this dish delivers. It’s a great way to use leftover rice, and I love how the flavors meld together while baking. The key is to let it rest after baking; this helps the casserole hold together beautifully.

Over the years, I've experimented with adding different vegetables and cheese. I found that a sprinkle of cheddar on top before baking adds a wonderful creamy layer that makes every bite delectable. It has quickly become one of our family favorites!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting with a savory blend of flavors
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

Key Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground beef is a critical first step that adds depth of flavor to the entire casserole. Ensure that the beef is cooked over medium heat, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This process enhances the umami taste of the dish. If the beef releases too much fat, be sure to drain it effectively to avoid a greasy final product.

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a translucent state for the onions and bell peppers. This typically takes about 4-6 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so keep an eye on them. You'll know they're ready when they have softened and released their fragrant aromas, making the kitchen smell delightful.

Flavor Boosting Tips

The spice blend in this casserole is minimal yet powerful. Garlic powder and paprika not only enhance the flavor but also serve to elevate the dish's aroma. If you're looking for extra zest, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or chili powder. These can complement the ground beef beautifully and introduce a different taste profile.

Using beef broth instead of water is crucial for achieving a rich taste. The broth infuses the rice with flavor as it cooks, making each bite satisfying. If you want to shift the flavor profile towards a lighter taste, chicken broth works wonderfully as a substitute. Just be cautious with adding salt, as chicken broth can be saltier.

Storage and Meal Prep

This casserole is not just a quick meal; it also excels in meal prep. Once cooked, let the casserole cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring that it maintains its cheesy, gooey texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole before baking. Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This makes for a slow-cooked comfort meal that feels fresh and homemade.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your casserole delightful and delicious!

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start creating your delicious casserole!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Ground Beef Rice Casserole!

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and then add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, rice, beef broth, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Now that your casserole is cooked to perfection, it's time to dig in!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian seasoning or hot sauce to the beef mixture. This casserole also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef Rice Casserole is versatile in its pairing options. I often serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you're looking to add a delightful crunch, a simple coleslaw can complement the soft texture of the casserole beautifully.

For a cozy feel, consider serving the casserole with crusty bread or garlic knots, allowing everyone to scoop up the hearty mixture with their pieces. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top can also enhance the presentation and add a refreshing touch.

Ingredient Variations

Customization is one of the best parts of this recipe. You can easily swap out the bell pepper for other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and a different flavor. This flexibility keeps the dish interesting and is an excellent way to use leftover produce from your fridge.

If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef. Keep in mind that these lean meats may require a bit more seasoning, as they tend to be milder in flavor. Also, adjust cooking times as necessary to achieve the proper texture without drying them out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. Use about 1.5 cups of beef broth and increase the baking time.

→ Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add extra baking time before serving.

→ What other veggies can I add?

Feel free to experiment with any vegetables you enjoy, such as corn, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

→ How long will this casserole last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.