# Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to comfort food that brings the whole family together, this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a true winner. With hearty ground beef, creamy rice, and a bubbling golden topping of melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea or a dish to share at a potluck, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Savory and creamy, with the richness of beef, tanginess from sour cream, and a smoky hint of paprika.
- Texture: Comforting bite of tender rice and beef paired with gooey melted cheese on top.
- Aroma: Mouthwatering scents of garlic, onion, and melted cheddar make this dish irresistible.
- Visual Appeal: Bold colors from bell peppers, golden cheese crust, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly recipe that anyone can master.
- Special Equipment: A large skillet and a classic 9×13 inch baking dish are all you need.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: The straightforward steps in this recipe make it simple enough for even the most inexperienced cooks to prepare.
- Category: Main course, one-dish meal.
- Cuisine: This casserole combines classic Southern flavors with timeless American comfort food vibes.
- Cost: Budget-friendly, costing less than $15 for ingredients to feed a family of six.
- Season: Perfect for any time of year but especially delightful during fall and winter for cozy evenings.
- Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for busy weekdays.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is all about layers of comfort. The creamy base made of rice mixed with sour cream and mushroom soup pairs perfectly with the hearty, savory flavors of seasoned ground beef. The cheddar topping adds a gooey, slightly crisp texture once baked, which is a crowd favorite every time.
Convenience is key with this recipe—made with pantry staples like rice and condensed soup, it’s an easy dish to throw together on busy weeknights. Plus, it’s highly customizable! You can swap in ground turkey or chicken, use brown rice for added nutrition, or even sneak in extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
In terms of nutrition, this casserole offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats. It’s also packed with flavor, so even picky eaters will come back for seconds. As a versatile, family-friendly meal, you can enjoy it fresh from the oven or reheated the next day, and it’s perfect for leftovers.
Cost-effectiveness is another huge bonus here. With affordable ingredients like ground beef and rice, you can whip up this dish without exceeding your grocery budget. It’s home cooking at its best, blending flavor, comfort, and affordability in every bite.
Historical Background and Cultural Significance
While casseroles are a staple in American homes, this recipe draws inspiration from various traditions. The use of ground beef and rice echoes the Midwest’s love for hearty, comforting hot dishes, while the creamy mushroom and sour cream base channel Southern-style richness.
Casseroles have evolved over time to become a symbol of communal comfort. From church potlucks to holidays, they are synonymous with generosity and togetherness. This particular recipe blends flavors that appeal universally while remaining customizable to regional palettes.
Ingredient Deep Dive
*Ground Beef:* The base of this dish, ground beef is versatile and protein-packed. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, and make sure to season it well for maximum flavor.
*Rice:* White rice is used for its quick cooking time, but brown rice or wild rice can add a nutty flavor and increase fiber content.
*Cheddar Cheese:* Nothing beats the melty goodness of cheddar. Opt for sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, or mix in some mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
The Recipe
Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
- Stir Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture. Mix well.
- In a saucepan, boil 2 cups of water. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until tender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish. Add the remaining cheddar cheese as the topping.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Recipe Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Double the recipe for meal prep—this dish freezes well!