Print

Easy Beef and Rice Casserole How to Make a Cheesy Family Dinner Fast

Print Recipe

This Easy Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—made in just one pan! Juicy ground beef, garlic, and onion are cooked with rice, beef broth, and milk, then topped with cheddar cheese and baked until bubbly. It’s a fast, family-friendly recipe perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or potlucks. Add your favorite veggies or protein swaps to customize this hearty and cheesy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup cooked turkey bacon or chicken ham, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
  4. Stir in uncooked rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast it.
  5. Add beef broth and milk to the skillet, stirring to combine.
  6. If using, stir in the chopped cooked turkey bacon or chicken ham.
  7. Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  8. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  9. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  10. Return to oven and bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

 

Notes

  • Use long grain rice for best texture. Avoid instant rice unless adjusting cooking time.

  • Make it ahead by assembling and refrigerating, then bake just before serving.

  • Want a crispier top? Broil the cheese for 2 minutes at the end.

  • Lighten it up with ground turkey, skim milk, and reduced-fat cheese.

  • Double the recipe for a crowd or divide into two smaller casseroles for freezing.

Find it online: https://flavorfulkitchenn.com/easy-beef-and-rice-casserole-how-to-make-a-cheesy-family-dinner-fast/