When the dinner bell rings on a busy weeknight and you’re staring at that mound of ground beef in the fridge, nothing feels more comforting than a warm, cheesy casserole baking away in the oven. This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is like a cozy hug for your taste buds: layers of succulent, herb-scented beef and fluffy rice bathed in a rich tomato sauce, all crowned by a bubbly, golden cheddar-Parmesan crust. It’s the perfect solution for those nights when you crave something hearty but want to keep things simple. From sautéing onions and garlic to stirring in herbs and spices, every step fills your kitchen with inviting scents that make everyone gather around the stove. As an easy dinner casserole that any home cook (even a beginner) can master, it’s a go-to recipe for potlucks, family dinners, or even lunch prep. Plus, at around 650 calories per serving with balanced protein and carbs, it checks all the boxes for an all-in-one comfort food meal.
I still remember the first time I made this beef and rice bake: I was experimenting with different cheesy beef casserole ideas, hoping to create something that combined familiar flavors with that dreamy cheddar crust you can’t resist. By the time it came out of the oven, I had crunchy, golden cheese on top that gave way to a saucy, seasoned core of beef and rice—just the sort of hearty dish that warms your soul. With only about 15 minutes of prep and roughly an hour of cooking (plus a quick 5-minute rest), you can transform basic pantry staples—ground beef, rice, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a handful of spices—into an irresistibly cheesy bake fit for a Sunday night dinner or a last-minute gathering. And because it’s tagged as “easy dinner casserole,” you don’t need any fancy techniques to pull it off. This recipe is beginner-friendly, budget-wise, and endlessly satisfying, making it one of those comfort food recipes you’ll find yourself returning to time and again.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHEDDAR-CRUSTED GROUND BEEF AND RICE CASSEROLE
Before we dive into the step-by-step, let’s take a quick look at the superstar ingredients that give this casserole its character and flavor depth.
- Ground beef
Adds rich, meaty flavor and body to the casserole. When browned, it creates those savory bits that mingle with rice and sauce for a hearty base in this hearty ground beef casserole.
- Long-grain white rice
Provides a fluffy, tender texture that absorbs the tomato-herb sauce without getting too sticky. It balances the richness of the cheese crust while bulking up the casserole for maximum comfort.
- Onion
Infuses sweet, aromatic notes when sautéed. As it softens, it lays the flavorful groundwork that highlights the beef and garlic in this beef and rice bake.
- Garlic
Delivers subtle pungency and depth, boosting the overall savoriness. Minced garlic disperses evenly, ensuring every bite has a hint of zing.
- Diced tomatoes
Introduce bright acidity and juicy texture, complementing the creamy rice and beef. Their juices help bind the mixture and keep the casserole moist.
- Tomato sauce
Thickens the sauce layer and adds smooth tomato richness. It helps coat the rice and beef uniformly for a cohesive cheddar crust casserole.
- Beef broth
Enhances the meaty flavor and ensures the rice cooks up tender by adding extra liquid. It deepens the overall taste profile without overpowering the dish.
- Dried oregano and basil
Impart classic Italian herb aromas. These seasonings brighten the tomato-beef sauce and tie together the flavors for a comforting, familiar taste.
- Black pepper and salt
Heighten and balance all the flavors. Adjust the salt to your liking; it’s the simplest trick for making this casserole truly pop.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Creates that golden, bubbly crust that defines this recipe. Half of it gets stirred in for creamy pockets, and half goes on top to form a crispy, cheesy finish.
- Olive oil
Prevents sticking and helps soften onions and garlic. A small drizzle goes a long way toward building a flavorful sauté base.
- Heavy cream
Adds velvety richness and a slight tang to the rice mixture, making each bite luscious and smooth in this cheesy beef casserole.
- Parmesan cheese
Sprinkled on top for an extra savory crunch and a hint of nutty sharpness that elevates the cheddar crust.
- Fresh parsley
Provides a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness as an optional garnish, making each serving look as good as it tastes.
HOW TO MAKE CHEDDAR-CRUSTED GROUND BEEF AND RICE CASSEROLE
Let’s roll up our sleeves and transform these ingredients into a bubbling, golden casserole that’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners or hearty potluck contributions. Follow these steps in order, and you’ll have dinner on the table in about an hour.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray or softened butter, ensuring the cheesy edges won’t stick.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally, until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains and the meat is evenly browned, roughly 6–8 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat slightly and cook for 5 more minutes, stirring now and then.
5. Meanwhile, in a separate pot, cook the long-grain white rice according to the package instructions. Once tender, fluff the grains with a fork and set the rice aside.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the beef-tomato mixture. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well blended and creamy.
7. Transfer the rice-and-beef mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
8. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan over the top, creating that irresistible crust.
9. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese topping is melted, golden-brown, and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
10. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This short cooldown helps the cheese set slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve hot.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHEDDAR-CRUSTED GROUND BEEF AND RICE CASSEROLE
After that glorious bake emerges from the oven, the real fun begins—serving this crowd-pleaser in ways that highlight its cheesy, saucy goodness. Whether you’re dishing it out for a casual family dinner or presenting it at a potluck, these serving ideas will take your casserole to the next level.
- Rustic Family Style
Dish up generous scoops directly from the casserole, letting everyone dive in with their own plates. Top each helping with a fresh sprig of parsley and a light drizzle of extra beef broth or crema to keep it moist.
- Layered Buffet Bowls
Serve individual portions in shallow bowls, layering the casserole with a side of mixed greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite feel balanced and bright.
- Cheesy Topping Bar
Set out small bowls of extra shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and a sprinkling of red pepper flakes. Let guests customize their casserole with more cheesy crunch or a hint of heat to suit their tastes.
- Vegetable Platter Pairing
Accompany the casserole with crisp carrot and celery sticks, or steamed broccoli florets. The fresh, crunchy veggies contrast beautifully with the creamy layers, adding both color and texture to your meal.
HOW TO STORE CHEDDAR-CRUSTED GROUND BEEF AND RICE CASSEROLE
One of the best things about this cheesy beef casserole is how well it holds up as leftovers—whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or planning in advance for a busy day. Proper storage will keep those flavors vibrant and the cheese crust inviting.
- Refrigerator Storage
Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through and the cheese re-melts.
- Freezer-Friendly Portions
Portion out the casserole into individual freezer-safe containers. Label each with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake or microwave until piping hot, restoring that fresh-from-the-oven feel.
- Make-Ahead Assembly
Follow steps 1–7 and cover the unbaked dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, simply top with cheese and bake as directed; this saves precious evening time.
- Reheating for Crispness
To recapture that golden crust, reheat individual servings in a toaster oven or conventional oven instead of the microwave. A few minutes at 375°F will bring back the bubbly crust without drying out the interior.
CONCLUSION
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole truly encapsulates everything we love about comfort food: savory beef infused with tomatoes and herbs, creamy rice enriched by a velvety splash of heavy cream, and an irresistible cheddar-Parmesan topping that bubbles and browns until perfectly crispy. With total prep and cook time hovering around 75 minutes (including a brief rest), it’s an ideal beginner-friendly recipe for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend meals. Whether you’re packing it for lunch the next day, planning a potluck contribution, or simply craving something hearty and cheesy, this casserole delivers on flavor, texture, and ease. It slots seamlessly into your routine as a dinner or lunch option, offering about 650 calories per serving and enough protein to power through whatever comes next. Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder so you can revisit it whenever you need an easy dinner casserole that feels like home.
I hope this guide has walked you through every step—from gathering ingredients to serving up that luscious cheddar crust—with friendly tips and vivid descriptions to make the process as fun as devouring the final dish. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to answer common questions, but if you have thoughts, tweaks, or unique twists of your own, I want to hear them! Drop a comment if you try this recipe, share any substitutions you’ve experimented with, or ask for help troubleshooting. Your feedback and stories make cooking more joyful, and I’m always here to help you transform simple ingredients into delicious memories. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Description
Layers of savory ground beef simmered in tomatoes and herbs mingle with creamy rice, all crowned by a bubbly cheddar and Parmesan crust. Comfort food perfect for weeknight dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with a bit of cooking spray or butter and set it aside.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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In a separate pot, cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the beef mixture. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing everything together well.
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Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
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Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Note
- For an extra crunchy topping, you can add a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeno to the beef mixture.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat in the oven before serving.
