There’s something magical about ground beef rice casseroles. They’re simple, versatile, and perfect for stretching ingredients into a delicious meal. Whether you’re craving a Tex-Mex kick or a cheesy Italian flair, these casseroles have you covered. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, they’re sure to fill your kitchen with warming aromas. Ready to shake up your dinner routine with some tasty inspiration?

Classic Beef and Rice Casserole

Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that combines the hearty flavors of ground beef with the wholesome texture of rice, all baked together in a creamy, cheesy sauce.

This classic casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of ingredients creates a rich and flavorful casserole that can be served on its own or with a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Not only is Ground Beef Rice Casserole delicious, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to tweak the recipe with your favorite spices or additional vegetables. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be made ahead of time and baked when you’re ready to eat.

The recipe below serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or leftovers for the next day.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a light layer of oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the vegetables begin to soften.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Mix in Flavorings: Stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce, ensuring that the spices and sauce are evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. If using, sprinkle the frozen peas over the top.
Add Cheese: Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Rice Casserole!

Extra Tips: For a slightly different flavor, try substituting the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup.

You can also add other vegetables like corn or diced tomatoes for added texture and flavor. If you prefer spicier dishes, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture.

This casserole is also freezer-friendly, so consider making a double batch and freezing one for a convenient meal later on.

Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Bake

Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This Tex-Mex Beef and Rice Bake combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, all brought together with zesty spices and a hint of lime. It’s a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors that make each bite satisfying.

To prepare this casserole, you’ll start by cooking the ground beef with some onions and garlic for a savory base. The addition of black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes introduces a Tex-Mex flair, while the combination of cumin, chili powder, and paprika adds a smoky, spicy depth.

After layering these ingredients with cooked rice and topping them with shredded cheese, a quick bake in the oven melds everything into a cohesive, cheesy delight. Served hot with a garnish of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Season the Meat: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Extra Tips:

For a spicier kick, consider adding a diced jalapeño along with the onion and garlic. If you want to make this dish a bit healthier, you can substitute ground turkey for beef or use brown rice instead of white rice.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave. To add a creamy texture, you might also consider mixing in a half-cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt before baking.

Cheesy Italian Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Italian Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the comforting texture of a casserole. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe is certain to please everyone at the table.

With a blend of savory ground beef, tender rice, and a medley of Italian herbs and cheeses, this casserole is both hearty and satisfying. Not only is it delicious, but it also makes for an easy one-dish meal that can be prepared in advance and baked right before serving.

This casserole is a great option for those busy weeknights when you want to serve something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple, and the preparation is straightforward, making it a go-to recipe for cooks of all skill levels.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll find this Cheesy Italian Beef and Rice Casserole to be a hit with your family and friends. The combination of gooey melted cheese and flavorful beef will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the oven is ready once the casserole is assembled and allows even cooking.
Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, cook 1 cup of rice according to the package instructions. Once done, fluff with a fork and set aside.
Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Combine ingredients: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the casserole: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked rice and the beef mixture. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm.

FOR YOU: 13 Hearty Beef Casserole Ideas To Feed A Hungry Crowd

Extra tips: When cooking the ground beef, ascertain it’s crumbled into small, even pieces for a better texture in the casserole. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped bell peppers along with the onions.

This casserole can also be prepared a day in advance; simply assemble it and store it in the refrigerator, then bake when ready to serve. If you have leftovers, they reheat beautifully and can be enjoyed the next day.

Beef and Broccoli Rice Casserole

Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the wholesome texture of rice, all brought together with a creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese.

This casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it can easily be made ahead of time and simply baked when needed. The combination of beef and rice creates a satisfying meal that’s both filling and delicious, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a quick and easy dinner option.

The Beef and Broccoli Rice Casserole variation adds a nutritious twist to the classic dish by incorporating fresh or frozen broccoli, adding a burst of color and extra vitamins to the meal.

This version maintains the comforting elements of the original recipe but with the added benefit of more vegetables, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balanced meal. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or simply want to enjoy a cozy meal at home, this casserole is sure to please.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 people)

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, uncooked rice, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this hearty dish with a side salad or some crusty bread.

Extra Tips

For best results, verify the rice is evenly distributed throughout the casserole to guarantee even cooking. If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it first; simply add it directly to the mixture.

Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup if desired. To add more flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef while it’s browning.

This dish can also be made ahead of time and frozen; simply cover tightly and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, thaw completely in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Spicy Southwest Beef and Rice Casserole

Spicy Southwest Beef and Rice Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines the savory taste of ground beef with the vibrant flavors of the Southwest. This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner, offering a delightful blend of spices and textures that will warm you up from the inside out.

The combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and a medley of vegetables makes this casserole not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal. The dish is easy to prepare and can be put together in under an hour, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.

The use of common pantry staples like canned beans and tomatoes guarantees that you can whip up this casserole without a final grocery run. Plus, the addition of cheese on top gives it a creamy, melty finish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family. Prepare to dig into this spicy, cheesy, and comforting dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cilantro and sliced jalapenos for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Mix in Spices and Vegetables: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper over the beef mixture. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn kernels. Mix well to confirm the spices are evenly distributed.
Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the uncooked rice, followed by the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, confirming the rice is submerged in the liquid.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapenos, if desired. Serve warm.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing the onion and garlic in the beef drippings for a richer taste. If you prefer a milder version, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.

You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For an added crunch, top the casserole with crushed tortilla chips before serving. Finally, this dish can be made in advance and refrigerated; just reheat it in the oven before serving to maintain its delicious texture.

Mushroom and Beef Rice Casserole

Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. This Mushroom and Beef Rice Casserole variation adds a rich, earthy flavor with the inclusion of mushrooms, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and full of depth. The combination of ground beef, rice, and creamy mushroom sauce makes for a deliciously savory experience that can be enjoyed by both adults and children alike.

This casserole isn’t only delicious but also relatively simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With a few staple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you’ll have a warm, filling meal on the table in no time. The recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, perfect for a family meal or for leftovers that can be enjoyed the next day.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will guarantee that it’s hot and ready for the casserole when you’re done with the stove-top preparation.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix well to guarantee all ingredients are evenly combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the rice from drying out during baking.
Bake: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, stir the casserole, and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is tender.
Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

FOR YOU: 12 Weeknight Friendly Ground Beef Casseroles That Save Time

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef mixture before baking. If you prefer a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can complement the flavors nicely.

Additionally, if you have leftovers, this casserole reheats well in the microwave or oven, making it a great option for meal prep. Adjust seasoning according to your taste, and feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a slightly different flavor profile.

Beef, Rice, and Vegetable Medley

Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the comforting texture of rice and a medley of colorful vegetables. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner, as it’s easy to prepare and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of ingredients creates a balanced meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious, making it a staple in many households.

This dish is versatile, allowing you to adjust the vegetables and seasonings according to your preferences. The Ground Beef Rice Casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners or gatherings. It serves 4-6 people, providing generous portions for each person. The casserole is also a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables, turning them into a delightful meal.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky during cooking. Chop the onion, red bell pepper, and garlic, and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the chopped red bell pepper, corn, and green peas to the skillet with the beef. Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
Combine with Rice and Broth: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beef and vegetable mixture. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef mixture while cooking. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the casserole. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the vegetable mix.

To save time, use pre-cooked rice or microwaveable rice pouches. Finally, this casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Creamy Beef and Spinach Rice Casserole

Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce to create a hearty meal your whole family will enjoy. This particular version, the Creamy Beef and Spinach Rice Casserole, adds a nutritious twist with the inclusion of fresh spinach, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce with a burst of green.

Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this casserole can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving, making it a convenient option for those on the go.

The combination of ingredients in this casserole guarantees a well-rounded meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The ground beef provides a robust base, while the rice adds substance, and the creamy sauce brings everything together with a luscious texture.

The spinach not only adds color and nutrients but also a fresh flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. This dish serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or small gatherings.