Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

When it comes to comforting, no-fuss meals that feed a crowd and satisfy every craving, few dishes check all the boxes quite like a Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying, this classic one-pan meal combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, savory seasonings, and often a rich, cheesy or creamy component—all baked together into a dish that feels like home with every bite.

Casseroles have long held a place in family kitchens across the world, and for good reason: they’re easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and reliably delicious. In the case of this particular casserole, the humble ingredients—ground beef, rice, and pantry staples—come together in a way that’s far greater than the sum of their parts. It’s the kind of meal that’s just as fitting on a busy weeknight as it is at a potluck, a holiday gathering, or a cozy weekend dinner.

The popularity of this dish lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep and basic techniques, you can create a flavorful, balanced meal using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Ground beef brings savory richness and protein, rice adds substance and comfort, and a variety of optional mix-ins—such as vegetables, tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, or melted cheese—enhance the dish with flavor, moisture, and texture. It’s a meal that feeds the body and soothes the soul.

Another strength of the Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is its versatility. You can stick to a classic version with beef, white rice, and a tomato-based sauce, or you can customize it to suit your dietary preferences and whatever ingredients you have on hand. Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat. Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier spin. Add frozen vegetables for color and nutrition, or top it with shredded cheese for a melty, golden finish. The variations are endless, but the end result is always satisfying.

This casserole is also a dream when it comes to meal prep and leftovers. It reheats beautifully, stores well, and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Whether you’re cooking for one and want meals for the week, or you’re feeding a hungry household, this dish offers both convenience and comfort.

In this comprehensive recipe guide, you’ll learn not only how to make a classic version of Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, but also how to adapt it to your tastes, use make-ahead strategies, balance flavors and textures, and present it beautifully. We’ll walk through every step in detail—from browning the beef to layering the casserole, seasoning thoughtfully, and baking to perfection. You’ll also find helpful tips, substitution ideas, storage and freezing instructions, and suggested side dishes to make it a full meal.

Whether you’re a beginner home cook looking for an easy, hearty recipe, or a seasoned cook searching for a dependable comfort food classic, this dish delivers every time. It’s the kind of meal that turns a few humble ingredients into something truly memorable—and keeps people coming back for seconds.

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole — Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Time: 10–15 minutes

Gather all your ingredients and complete your prep before you begin cooking. This will streamline your process and help avoid missing any key steps.

Core Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or 3 cups cooked)

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup diced bell pepper (any color)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

• 1 ½ cups beef broth or water

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for topping or mixing in)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, adds umami)

• ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• Olive oil or neutral cooking oil (as needed)

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Time: 8–10 minutes

1. Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.

2. Add a drizzle of oil if your beef is very lean. Once hot, add the ground beef.

3. Break the beef up using a wooden spoon or spatula. Let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to allow it to brown.

4. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains—about 6–8 minutes total.

5. Drain excess fat if necessary (especially if using a higher-fat ground beef).

6. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano, and stir in Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

Optional Add-in: A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Time: 5–7 minutes

1. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the browned beef in the skillet.

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 5–7 minutes or until the onions are soft and translucent, and the peppers are just tender.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Tip: If using other vegetables (like mushrooms or zucchini), add them at this stage too.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Rice

Now it’s time to bring everything together for the casserole base.

If Using Uncooked Rice (best for baking directly):

1. Stir in the uncooked rice and mix well with the beef mixture.

2. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), cream soup, and beef broth.

3. Stir everything thoroughly to combine.

If Using Cooked Rice (such as leftovers):

1. Reduce broth amount to ¾ cup.

2. Stir in the cooked rice after simmering the beef, tomato, and soup mixture together for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Simmer Before Baking (Optional but Recommended)

Time: 5 minutes

1. Let the mixture simmer gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat for 4–5 minutes.

2. This step helps pre-soften the rice and meld the flavors, especially important if using uncooked rice.

3. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Time: 5 minutes

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (or similar) casserole dish with cooking spray or oil.

3. Pour the beef and rice mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.

4. If desired, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly across the top.

5. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and cook the rice fully.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Time: 35–45 minutes (for uncooked rice)
Time: 20–25 minutes (for cooked rice)

For Uncooked Rice:

• Bake covered for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.

• Uncover, sprinkle remaining cheese (½ cup) on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

For Cooked Rice:

• Bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbling.

• Add cheese halfway through baking, or melt it on top for the final 5 minutes uncovered.

Tip: Test doneness by inserting a fork into the center—rice should be tender and the liquid fully absorbed.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Time: 5–10 minutes

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest uncovered for 5–10 minutes.

2. This helps the dish firm up for easier slicing and serving.

3. Garnish with:

   • Fresh chopped parsley

   • Sliced green onions

   • Cracked black pepper

   • A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Ground Beef and Rice Casserole hot from the oven as a main course. It’s hearty and filling enough to stand alone, but also pairs beautifully with:

• A green salad or coleslaw

• Steamed green beans or broccoli

• Crusty bread or garlic toast

• Pickles or a tangy relish