Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Can Cream of Mushroom Soup; 1 Cup Long Grain White Rice (uncooked); 2 Cups Water; 1 Cup Carrots (sliced); 1/2 to 1 Pound Ground Beef (cooked); Cheddar or Colby Jack Cheese (sliced, about 9 pieces); 2 Cups Water; Pacific Foods Mushroom Gravy (13.9 ounces); 1/2 Cup Milk; 1 Cup Long Grain White Rice (uncooked); 1/2 to 1 Pound Ground Beef (cooked); 1 Cup Carrots (sliced); Colby Jack or Medium Cheddar Cheese (for topping, about 9 slices); 3 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter; 1/4 Cup Onion (minced); 1 Clove Garlic (minced); 1/2 Cup White Button Mushrooms (minced); 3 Tablespoons Flour; 1/2 Cup Cream; 1/2 Cup Chicken Broth; 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper; Salt (to taste); 1 Cup Long Grain White Rice (uncooked); 2 Cups Water; 1/2 to 1 Pound Ground Beef (cooked); 1 Cup Carrots (sliced); Cheddar or Colby Jack Cheese (sliced, about 9 slices)

I absolutely love cozy, comforting dishes that bring the family together around the table, and this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe does just that for me. It’s one of those meals I find myself turning to when I want something hearty, filling, and downright satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender ground beef, fluffy rice, sweet carrots, and melty cheese baked all in one dish just hits all the right notes for comfort food cravings. I’m excited to share this recipe that’s become a staple for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings alike.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is the rich, creamy flavor that comes through in every bite. The blend of creamy mushroom soup or homemade mushroom gravy with the juicy, seasoned ground beef creates a savory, comforting base. Then you’ve got the tender carrots adding a subtle sweetness and the melted cheddar or Colby Jack cheese on top making it utterly irresistible. It just tastes like a warm hug from the inside out.

I also appreciate how straightforward this casserole is to put together. Whether I’m making the quick version with canned soup or going the extra mile with the from-scratch mushroom gravy, the steps are simple and don’t require fancy techniques. It’s truly one of those recipes that feels special but doesn’t demand too much of your time or energy, which makes it perfect for busy days.

This dish shines in so many occasions. I love serving it for family dinners when I want a no-fuss meal everyone will enjoy, but it’s also great for potlucks or even comforting lunches the next day. I think what really makes this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe stand out is how it manages to balance nourishment and indulgence while staying easy and accessible.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a base layer of cooked ground beef mixed with white rice, topped with a golden brown gravy-like sauce covering the meat and rice mixture evenly. On top, there are evenly spaced pale yellow cheese squares, each about the same size and neatly placed in rows. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, with no additional props or background elements visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients here are simple but essential, each playing a key role in the final taste and texture of the casserole. From fresh carrots adding a pop of color and sweetness to the creamy mushroom components that enrich the dish, these staples come together beautifully to create a memorable meal.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds creamy, earthy richness that ties everything together.
Long Grain White Rice: Provides a fluffy, tender base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
Water: Essential for cooking the rice and melding the ingredients into the casserole.
Carrots (sliced): Bring a natural sweetness and delightful texture contrast.
Ground Beef (cooked): The savory protein star that makes this recipe nourishing and filling.
Cheddar or Colby Jack Cheese (sliced): Melts perfectly on top for a gooey, golden finish.
Mushroom Gravy and Milk (for semi-homemade): Elevate the flavor with a smooth, silky sauce.
Butter, Onion, Garlic, and Mushrooms (for from scratch): Build layers of rich, fresh flavor before baking.
Flour and Cream: Used to thicken the homemade gravy and add luscious creaminess.
Chicken Broth, Pepper, and Salt: Season perfectly to balance the hearty casserole.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously spray or grease an 8x9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Depending on your preferred method, start by either mixing the canned cream of mushroom soup with rice, water, sliced carrots, and cooked ground beef for a quick recipe, or whisk together water, mushroom gravy, and milk for the semi-homemade approach. For the from-scratch version, you'll first make a mushroom cream sauce by melting butter, sautéing onion, garlic, and mushrooms, then thickening with flour before adding cream and chicken broth.

Step 3: Combine the chosen sauce, rice, water, cooked ground beef, and carrots in your prepared baking dish, stirring gently to evenly distribute everything.

Step 4: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 90 minutes. This slow baking melds the flavors and cooks the rice to tender perfection.

Step 5: After 90 minutes, carefully remove the casserole and evenly place slices of cheddar or Colby Jack cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven for a few more minutes until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly.

Step 6: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and make scooping easier. Enjoy that gorgeous, cheesy top and the layers of flavor beneath!

Servings and Timing

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe yields about 8 generous servings, perfect for feeding a family or having leftovers for the week. Prep time is fairly minimal—around 15 minutes, especially if you use canned soup or mushroom gravy. The bulk of the time is hands-off baking for about 90 minutes to cook the rice thoroughly and let flavors develop. Overall, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes from start to finish, including baking and resting time. Planning ahead for that baking window is key so you can relax and let the oven do the work.

How to Serve This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

The image shows a white baking dish filled with a layered casserole. The bottom layer is a mix of cooked ground meat and dark beans, giving a chunky brown and reddish texture. On top, there is a thick layer of melted yellow and white cheese, slightly browned and bubbling with some green herbs sprinkled on it. A spoon lifts some of the casserole, showing the layers clearly with cheese stretching from the dish to the spoon. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a piece of cloth visible nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this casserole, I love pairing it with crisp green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness. A simple side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh cucumber salad also complements the creamy, cheesy flavors nicely. I often garnish the top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions to add a pop of color and freshness that really brightens the plate.

For beverages, a medium-bodied red wine like a Merlot pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness with its smooth tannins. If you want to keep it non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with lemon or a lightly brewed iced tea with a splash of citrus work wonders. This casserole is incredibly flexible and suits casual weeknight dinners as well as holiday meals or potluck parties where you want to impress without stress.

I always recommend serving this dish warm, right out of the oven, when the cheese topping is perfectly melted and bubbly. If you need to reheat leftovers, warming gently helps keep the casserole moist and gooey. Plate out reasonable portions—about a heaping scoop is enough to satisfy but leaves room if you want to add some sides. This dish encourages cozy, relaxed dining with family or friends, so feel free to serve family-style and let everyone help themselves!

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is how adaptable it is. If you want to switch it up, try substituting ground turkey or ground chicken in place of beef for a lighter take. For veggie lovers or those seeking a vegetarian option, swapping in lentils or textured vegetable protein can work well with the mushroom gravy base to keep that hearty feel.

If you’re gluten-free, simply use gluten-free flour for thickening and check the canned soup or gravy labels to make sure they’re gluten-free, or stick with the homemade mushroom sauce for total control. Vegan versions are possible by using plant-based ground meat, dairy-free cheese, and coconut or oat milk in the sauce, though I recommend increasing seasoning to keep the bold flavors.

To jazz up the flavor profile, I sometimes add a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for warmth. For cooking methods, you can assemble the casserole and cook it in a slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours, just adding cheese at the end under the broiler, which is great for busy days or when you want dinner waiting for you.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, stash any leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh. I favor glass containers with tight-fitting lids because they maintain flavor and are easy to reheat. Stored properly in the fridge, your casserole will stay good for 3 to 4 days, giving you plenty of opportunities for savory second helpings.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully, which I love because it makes a perfect make-ahead meal. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer portions or the whole dish (wrapped tightly with foil or plastic wrap) into the freezer. It can keep frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost overnight in the fridge to ensure even reheating.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat is in a preheated oven at 350°F, covered loosely with foil to retain moisture, for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture intact, as the rice can get mushy and cheese rubbery. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts and stir gently between intervals to distribute heat evenly. Adding a splash of broth before reheating helps restore creaminess if things dry out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but it also takes longer to cook. I recommend pre-cooking the brown rice until it's nearly tender before adding it to the casserole to ensure it cooks fully during the bake time.

Is it necessary to cook the ground beef before baking?

Absolutely, pre-cooking the ground beef is important for safety and flavor. It ensures the meat is fully cooked through and allows you to season it well before adding it to the casserole. Raw beef in a casserole can result in uneven cooking and a less desirable texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! I often assemble everything the day before, cover the baking dish, and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it as directed, adding extra baking time if it’s chilled. This makes mealtime stress-free and quick on busy days.

What’s the best cheese to use for topping?

I prefer sharp cheddar or Colby Jack for their excellent melting qualities and balanced flavor. However, feel free to try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for a different taste and texture experience.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in peas, corn, bell peppers, or chopped spinach to boost nutrition and variety. Just make sure to adjust baking times slightly if the veggies require different cooking durations.

Conclusion

I hope you’ll give this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe a try soon—it’s truly one of my go-to favorites when I want a satisfying, comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Once you experience that warm, cheesy goodness bubbling from the oven, I guarantee it’ll become a beloved dish in your household too. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!