The Art of Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Perfection

Perfect Beef Browning Technique

Master the method of browning ground beef to develop deep, rich flavors and proper texture.

Rice Cooking Mastery

Learn the skill of cooking rice perfectly within the casserole using proper liquid ratios.

Cheese Layering Excellence

Perfect the technique of incorporating cheese for maximum meltiness and flavor distribution.

Vegetable Integration

Master the art of adding vegetables at the right time for perfect texture and flavor.

Golden Topping Achievement

Learn optimal techniques for creating crispy, golden topping that adds textural contrast.

Casserole Success Secrets for Perfect Cheesy Beef and Rice Every Time

Rice Cooking: Don't peek! Keep foil on for first 35 minutes so rice cooks properly in steam.

Beef Choice: Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor - drain excess fat if needed after browning.

Make Ahead: Assemble casserole completely, refrigerate, then bake when ready adding 10 extra minutes.

Cheese Options: Mix different cheese varieties for more complex flavor - try pepper jack for heat.

Vegetable Flexibility: Substitute frozen vegetables with fresh or customize to family preferences.

Leftover Magic: This casserole reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Melted Cheddar and Vegetables

Name: Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Melted Cheddar and Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Ground Beef Base:; 2 pounds ground beef (80/20); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; For the Aromatic Vegetables:; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; For the Rice Foundation:; 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked; 4 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Tomato Base:; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; For the Cheese Layers:; 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; For the Seasoning Blend:; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); For the Creamy Element:

The ultimate comfort food casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, melted cheese, and savory vegetables baked to golden perfection. This hearty one-dish meal combines tender ground beef with perfectly cooked rice, layers of gooey melted cheese, and a medley of vegetables, creating an unforgettable family dinner that's both satisfying and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you crave wholesome comfort food that feeds a crowd.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

45 Minutes

Total Time

60 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Ground Beef Base:

2 pounds ground beef (80/20)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Aromatic Vegetables:

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

For the Rice Foundation:

2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked

4 cups beef broth

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Tomato Base:

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Cheese Layers:

3 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

For the Seasoning Blend:

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Creamy Element:

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup milk

For the Fresh Components:

2 cups frozen mixed vegetables

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 green onions, sliced

For the Topping:

1 cup crushed butter crackers

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1/4 cup additional cheddar cheese

For Special Equipment:

Large skillet

9x13 inch baking dish

Aluminum foil

Wooden spoon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly.

Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Add ground beef, breaking it apart with wooden spoon while cooking.

Season beef with salt and pepper, cooking until browned and no pink remains.

Add diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to browned beef.

Cook vegetables with beef for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce with beef mixture.

Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, and oregano to mixture.

Pour in beef broth and bring mixture to a gentle simmer.

Stir in uncooked rice, ensuring it's evenly distributed in liquid.

Add frozen mixed vegetables and stir to combine all ingredients.

Mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk in separate bowl.

Pour creamy mixture over beef and rice, stirring gently to combine.

Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar and all mozzarella, stirring until incorporated.

Transfer entire mixture to prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.

Cover dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam for cooking rice.

Bake covered for 35 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.

Remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top.

Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over cheese layer.

Return to oven uncovered and bake 10 minutes until cheese melts.

Increase oven temperature to broil for 2-3 minutes until topping is golden.

Remove from oven and let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley and sliced green onions for color and flavor.

Cut into squares and serve hot with additional toppings if desired.

Store leftovers covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating as needed.

Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Melted Cheddar and Vegetables

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Perfection

Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Melted Cheddar and Vegetables

Ingredients

Instructions