CHEESY GROUND BEEF RICE CASSEROLE

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Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

There’s something truly special about a warm, bubbling casserole straight from the oven. It’s cozy, hearty, and perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. Among the many comfort food classics, the Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole stands out as an all-time favorite — simple to make, full of rich flavor, and irresistibly cheesy. This dish blends tender rice, seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and creamy melted cheese into one deliciously satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-dish wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup easy.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults both adore its comforting, cheesy goodness.
Budget-friendly: Made with affordable pantry staples.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables, spices, or types of cheese.

🧀 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this comforting casserole:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef – lean or regular, depending on your preference
1 cup long-grain white rice – uncooked
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
2 cups beef broth or water
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather and prepare all your ingredients. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and shred the cheese if it’s not pre-shredded. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns.
Once it’s halfway cooked, stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic.
Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Seasoning and Rice

Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to coat the beef mixture evenly.
Add the uncooked rice directly to the skillet, stirring to mix it with the beef and vegetables.
This step helps the rice absorb all the flavorful juices from the meat and spices.