Ground Beef and Rice Casserole | Easy Dinner Idea Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate easy dinner idea for a busy weeknight. It combines simple, hearty ingredients into a comforting one-dish meal the whole family will love. For more cozy recipes, try this Beef Barley Soup or this classic French Onion Soup.

Ingredients

This comforting Ground Beef and Rice Casserole comes together with simple pantry staples that create a rich, savory dish with tender rice and melted cheese.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken/celery soup)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup water
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a truly easy dinner idea.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and achieves a golden-brown top. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little oil.

Step 2 — Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat once the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. For extra flavor, season with a pinch of salt and black pepper during cooking.

Step 3 — Sauté Aromatics

Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Stir in 1 cup of long-grain white rice and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the grains.

Step 4 — Combine Ingredients

Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 (15-ounce) can of diced tomatoes (undrained). Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat.

Step 5 — Transfer to Baking Dish

Carefully pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, which helps the rice cook through perfectly.

Step 6 — Bake Covered

Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquid and become tender. Avoid opening the oven during this time to maintain a consistent temperature.

Step 7 — Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the foil and sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Let the casserole stand for 5–10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice and serve. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F for food safety.

Step 9 — Garnish and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this easy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole warm alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Information

Calories	410
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	16g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	620mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — Lighter protein option with similar texture and mild flavor that pairs well with rice.
• Cauliflower Rice — Lower-carb alternative that absorbs flavors while adding extra vegetables to your casserole.
• Quinoa Instead of Rice — Higher-protein grain swap that provides complete protein and nutty flavor.
• Dairy-Free Cheese — Perfect for lactose intolerance while maintaining the creamy, melty texture in your ground beef and rice casserole.
• Low-Sodium Broth & Soy Sauce — Reduces sodium content significantly while still building savory depth in this easy dinner idea.
• Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream — Adds creaminess with more protein and less fat for a healthier topping.
• Lentils for Half the Beef — Stretches ground beef with plant-based protein and fiber while keeping the hearty texture.
• Zucchini Noodles Layer — Adds vegetable volume and reduces carbs when layered with the rice in your casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Pair with steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
• Offer a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, or shredded cheese on top for extra flavor.
• Great for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep—it reheats beautifully for easy lunches.
• Serve in individual ramekins for a charming, portion-controlled presentation at casual gatherings.
• Accompany with a side of cornbread or crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce.

This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a versatile and easy dinner idea that fits perfectly into busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using instant rice, which turns mushy. Fix: Use long-grain white rice for proper texture.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan when browning beef. Fix: Cook in batches to get a proper sear.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of draining excess grease. Fix: Always drain fat to prevent a greasy casserole.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the beef while cooking. Fix: Add salt and pepper to the beef in the pan for deeper flavor.
• Mistake: Using a shallow baking dish, causing dry edges. Fix: Use a deep 9×13 dish for even cooking.
• Mistake: Adding cold broth, which increases baking time. Fix: Use warm or hot broth for consistent results.
• Mistake: Forgetting to cover the dish with foil. Fix: Cover tightly for the first half of baking to steam the rice.
• Mistake: Overmixing ingredients, making the texture pasty. Fix: Gently fold components to maintain distinct layers.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Ground Beef and Rice Casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until steaming hot, or bake the entire casserole covered at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure this easy dinner idea is reheated to a safe temperature of 165°F before serving.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect easy dinner idea for busy weeknights. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Ground Beef Pot Pie Recipe next. Let us know how it turned out in the comments and subscribe for more delicious meal ideas!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can use long-grain white rice or brown rice. Adjust the liquid and cooking time according to the rice package directions to ensure your Ground Beef and Rice Casserole turns out perfectly.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since you are starting with a cold dish.

What can I add to this easy dinner idea for more flavor?

For extra flavor, consider adding a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, or your favorite shredded cheese on top. These simple additions make this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole even more delicious.