Name: Easy 5-Ingredient Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef; 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup; 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 1 cup Cooked Rice; 1 cup Frozen Mixed Vegetables

Jump to Recipe

So, what’s behind the name “Easy 5-Ingredient Casserole”? Well, the name says it all—five humble ingredients, a dash of love, and a whole lot of flavor. It’s like a kitchen magic trick: minimal effort, maximum taste. Why five? Because who wants to juggle a grocery list as long as their arm on a busy night? If the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, this casserole is the shortcut! Whether you’re new to cooking or just need something quick, this recipe has you covered. Don’t just take my word for it—pull out your casserole dish and see for yourself how delicious easy can be!

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll fall in love with this casserole for its creamy-oozy cheddar top that brings warmth to every bite. Making this at home is not only a money-saver, but you’re also choosing wholesome, familiar ingredients—no unpronounceable additives here! Plus, the medley of savory ground beef, soft rice, and vibrant mixed vegetables keeps things colorful and nutritious. Remember my Taco Pasta Skillet recipe? This one shares that same family-friendly ease, but with even fewer steps. Sprinkle on your favorite toppings, serve with a smile, and watch it vanish before your eyes. Ready to give it a try? Your weeknight dinner rotation will thank you!

How to Make Easy 5-Ingredient Casserole

Quick Overview

What sets this Easy 5-Ingredient Casserole apart is its incredible simplicity paired with irresistible comfort food flavors. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty beef and vegetables, it’s the all-in-one dinner solution you’ve been searching for. Prep time is under 10 minutes, bake time is about 30—you can have a nourishing, satisfying meal on the table in less than an hour. Minimal cleanup, no fancy skills required, and it works perfectly for leftovers, too! Let’s get started:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy casserole.
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, cream of mushroom soup, cooked rice, frozen mixed vegetables, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything until well blended, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Lightly grease a casserole dish, then transfer the mixture into it. Spread it out evenly for consistent baking.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture to create a gorgeous, melty cheese crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
Remove from the oven, let it cool for just a couple of minutes, and dish out hearty portions to your hungry eaters!

What to Serve With

This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad adds freshness and crunch to your meal. Try a side of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up any creamy goodness left on your plate. For a lighter twist, steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts complement the savory flavors beautifully. If you like, serve with a glass of iced tea or a fruity white wine for adults. Balance out your plate and keep your taste buds happy!

Top Tips for Perfecting

Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the beef as it cooks for extra depth of flavor.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if you want a lighter, leaner option.
Don’t have cream of mushroom soup? Cream of chicken or celery works great too!
For added crunch, sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or French fried onions on top before baking.
Avoid overbaking—check for that golden, bubbly cheese topping to signal your casserole is ready.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover casserole keeps beautifully! Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave or warm gently in a 350°F oven until heated through. For longer storage, freeze leftovers in single-serving containers for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual. Always ensure the casserole is piping hot before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

Can I swap out the vegetable mix?

Totally! Use any frozen or fridge-clearing vegetables you like—corn, peas, green beans, or even chopped spinach all work well.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

The only ingredient you need to check is the cream of mushroom soup—choose a certified gluten-free version and you’ll be set.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the ground beef and substitute with your favorite meat-free crumbles or double up on the veggies and rice.

What size casserole dish should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works great, but an 8×8-inch will make the casserole a bit thicker. Adjust baking time if necessary.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and ridiculously easy dinner, this Easy 5-Ingredient Casserole is your answer. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you get a golden, bubbling dish that brings comfort and joy to the table every single time. Whether you’re a newbie cook or a busy pro needing a weeknight win, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So why not give it a try tonight? Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!