Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Posted on February 11, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that warms your soul while satisfying your taste buds? The Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is just that—a comforting meal that features savory ground beef enveloped in fluffy rice, all topped with a crispy cheddar crust. This dish not only delights with its flavors but also offers the perfect blend of textures that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Easy One-Pan Meal: Preparing this dish requires minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pan. Simply combine ingredients in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do its magic while you spend time with loved ones.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize this casserole by adding vegetables or spices according to your preference. Ingredients like bell peppers or corn can elevate flavor profiles while adding nutrition.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor; about 1 pound is ideal.
White Rice: Long-grain white rice works best; use about 1 cup for perfectly cooked grains.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the flavor; finely chop it before cooking.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses robust flavor into the dish—use three cloves for optimal taste.
Diced Tomatoes: One can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes brings moisture; consider using fire-roasted for added smokiness.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar cheese creates a delicious crust; use about 2 cups generously layered on top before baking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté chopped onion until translucent—about four minutes—then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook Ground Beef: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned completely, breaking it apart as it cooks—this should take around six to eight minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in uncooked white rice along with diced tomatoes (including juice), salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Transfer Mixture to Baking Dish: Pour the meat-rice mixture into your prepared baking dish evenly spreading it out using a spatula.

Bake and Add Cheese Topping: Bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes until rice is tender. Remove from oven, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top, then return to bake for an additional ten minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Transfer to plates and enjoy warm!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Lean Meat: Opting for lean ground beef helps reduce grease while still delivering great flavor without extra calories.

Add Veggies for Nutrition: Incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the mix before baking—they enhance nutritional value while adding color.

Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for about five minutes after baking helps flavors meld together while making serving easier.

Create Leftover Magic: This casserole keeps well in the fridge! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days—simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Pair your casserole with a side of pickles or olives to introduce a tangy flavor element. The acidity from these sides cuts through the cheese’s creaminess, making every bite more enjoyable and enhancing your overall dining experience.

FAQs

What can I substitute for ground beef in this casserole?

You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef in this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble all ingredients as directed, then cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes or until heated through.

How do I store leftovers from this casserole?

To store leftovers from your Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Can I add vegetables to this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Yes! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas enhances both flavor and nutrition in your Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.