Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe
A comforting and creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole combining seasoned ground beef, cooked rice, vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to perfection with a smooth sour cream topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 onions, diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 cup frozen green peas
Seasonings and Dairy
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, pepper, and oregano to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Onions: Place the diced onions and ground beef into a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté until the meat is browned and the onions are softened, ensuring the flavors begin to meld.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the garlic powder and continue to sauté for another 30 seconds to release its aroma. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Season the Mixture: Reduce the heat to medium and season the beef and onion mixture with oregano, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Combine Main Ingredients: Mix in the tomato sauce, cooked rice, frozen green peas, chicken broth, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently until the cheese melts and everything is well incorporated.
- Prepare for Baking: Spread the hot mixture evenly into a well-greased casserole dish. Place it in a preheated oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 15 minutes to set the casserole.
- Mix Sour Cream Topping: While baking, blend together the sour cream and the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese in a bowl until smooth.
- Apply Topping and Bake Again: Remove the casserole from the oven, spread the sour cream and cheese mixture evenly over the top, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is warmed through and slightly golden.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting quality.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, especially if using low-sodium chicken broth.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just extend the baking time slightly if baking cold.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving to allow it to set.
Keywords: cheesy ground beef casserole, rice casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, ground beef recipe, easy weeknight dinner
