Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy dish that everyone will love. It’s a meal that combines savory ground beef, creamy goodness, and cheesy toppings, making it perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is not only delicious but also simple to make. It’s an all-in-one meal that saves you time and dishes! Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice. When I made this for my family, they couldn’t get enough. It’s a guaranteed hit!
How to Make Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, rice, sour cream, and tomato sauce. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This casserole is best served hot. You can pair it with a simple salad or some steamed veggies for a balanced meal. It’s so filling that you may not need much else!
How to Store Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef for a healthier dish.
- Add additional spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning for more flavor.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies to the beef mixture for some extra nutrients.
Variation
You can easily make this recipe using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a fun twist!
FAQs
Can I use uncooked rice?
No, it’s best to use cooked rice for this recipe to ensure everything heats evenly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The cheesy topping and meaty filling make it a favorite among kids. Plus, it’s a great way to get them to eat rice and veggies!
Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, rice, sour cream, and tomato sauce. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
