Easy Weeknight Comfort: Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

When you need a quick, hearty, and delicious dinner idea that satisfies the whole family, this Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is a total winner. It’s a one-pan wonder made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, rice, diced tomatoes, and gooey cheese — perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and freezer-friendly!

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 40 mins

Rest Time 5 mins

Total Time 55 mins

Cooking Method: Baking, One-Pot Recipes

Cuisine: American

Courses: Dinner, Main course

Difficulty: Beginner

Cooking Temp: 190 C

Servings: 4

Estimated Cost: 11

Calories: 480kcal

Best Season: Fall, Winter

Description

A simple, comforting, and cheesy casserole packed with seasoned ground beef, rice, and vegetables — all baked to perfection in one dish!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

500 g ground beef (lean)
1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 can diced tomatoes with juice (14 oz)
2 cups beef broth (low sodium)
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley (chopped, optional)

Instructions

1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large skillet or oven-safe pan, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3
Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
4
Stir in rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, peas, corn, and seasonings. Mix everything well.
5
Bring the mixture to a light simmer, then cover with foil or a lid.
6
Bake in the oven for 30–35 minutes until rice is tender.
7
Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and return to oven uncovered for 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 480kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18g28%
Saturated Fat 8g40%
Cholesterol 80mg27%
Sodium 720mg30%
Potassium 620mg18%
Total Carbohydrate 42g15%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 3g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage Notes:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, portion it, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Reheating Tip: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to prevent the rice from drying out.

Substitutions & Tips:

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Brown rice can be used instead of white, but increase cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to boost nutrition.

Make It Spicy:

Add a pinch of red chili flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist!

Serving Suggestions:

Pair with a simple side salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Meal Prep Friendly:

This dish is perfect for meal prep. Divide into containers and refrigerate or freeze for grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Keywords: ground beef casserole, beef rice bake, easy dinner ideas, family meal, budget ground beef recipes, comfort food recipes