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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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4 from 6 reviews

A comforting and creamy cheesy ground beef and rice casserole that combines savory seasoned beef, tender mushrooms, and a rich blend of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. This one-pot dish simplifies preparation by cooking the rice and beef together before finishing in the oven, making it an ideal hearty meal for family dinners.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Ground Beef and Seasoning

  • 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • ¾ cup onions, diced
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 8 oz. sliced button mushrooms, washed

Liquids and Dairy

  • 2 ½ cups beef broth
  • 3 tablespoons butter (divided: 2 tbsp + 1 tbsp)
  • ½ cup milk (any kind)
  • ½ cup sour cream

Other

  • 1 ¼ cups uncooked white long grain rice (not instant rice)
  • 10.5 oz. cream of mushroom soup
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese (divided: 1 cup + 1 cup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and check your rice package for exact liquid amounts and cooking time. This recipe uses 2 ½ cups beef broth and 1 ¼ cups uncooked rice for reference.
  2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
  3. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning during cooking for flavor enhancement.
  4. Drain and Set Aside Beef: Drain excess grease from the beef, transfer it to a plate, and cover with foil to keep warm.
  5. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Using the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  6. Add Liquids and Rice: Pour in the beef broth and add 1 tablespoon of butter plus the uncooked rice. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
  7. Simmer Rice Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot tightly and cook for 10 minutes without stirring.
  8. Add Mushrooms: Place the sliced mushrooms on top, cover the pot again, and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, following rice package’s recommended cooking time. Do not stir to avoid disturbing the rice.
  9. Let Rice Stand: Turn off heat, keep the pot covered, and let it stand undisturbed for 10 minutes to finish cooking and allow any stuck rice to release naturally.
  10. Combine Beef and Creamy Ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Add cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir gently to mix all the components together.
  11. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish and pour the mixture into it. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
  12. Bake: Cover the casserole with foil or a lid and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
  13. Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.

Notes

  • For best rice texture, follow your rice package instructions regarding liquid ratios and cooking time.
  • You can cook the rice separately if preferred; use 3¾ cups cooked rice in step 10.
  • Use medium cheddar cheese for best melt and flavor balance.
  • Ensure to not stir the rice during simmering to prevent mushy texture.
  • This casserole stores well and tastes great reheated for leftovers.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/cheesy-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole-recipe/