This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying comfort dish packed with savory ground beef, tender rice, and melty cheddar cheese! Itβs perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, and itβs guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
π Ingredients
β 1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20 for juicier flavor!) π₯©
β 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or even cauliflower rice!) π
β 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for the best flavor!) π§
β Β½ cup sour cream (adds richness and creaminess!) π₯
β Β½ cup tomato sauce (for a subtle tangy base!) π
β 1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth!) π§
β 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, but adds amazing flavor!) π§
β 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (deepens the beefy flavor!) πΏ
β Β½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds warmth and depth!) πΆοΈ
β Β½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste!) π§
β ΒΌ teaspoon black pepper
β 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautΓ©ing!) π§
π¨βπ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
1οΈβ£ Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2οΈβ£ Cook the Beef & Onion Mixture
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2β3 minutes, until soft.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease, then stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Let simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
3οΈβ£ Mix & Assemble the Casserole
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
Stir in the beef mixture until well combined.
Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
4οΈβ£ Add the Cheddar Crust & Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20β25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5οΈβ£ Serve & Enjoy!
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra color and flavor! πΏ
π½οΈ How to Serve This Cheesy Casserole
β As a Main Dish β Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables! π₯
β With a Side of Garlic Bread β Because who doesnβt love extra carbs? π₯
β As a Make-Ahead Meal β Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully!
π οΈ Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Let cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350Β°F (175Β°C) for 10β15 minutes or microwave in 30-second bursts.
π Why Youβll Love This Recipe!
β Ultra-Cheesy & Flavor-Packed β The crispy cheddar crust is irresistible! π§
β One-Pan Wonder β Everything comes together in one dish! π²
β Super Easy to Make β Simple ingredients, big flavor!
β Great for Meal Prep & Freezing β Make ahead and enjoy all week!
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors! Itβs the perfect comfort food for the whole family! π²π§