Ground Beef And Rice Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

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I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for my family! It's one of those comforting recipes that combines hearty ground beef with fluffy rice, all baked together with a savory sauce. We often enjoy it on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and, best of all, is a crowd-pleaser. This dish is perfect for using pantry staples, and I always feel satisfied seeing the clean plates at the end of dinner. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, making lunch the next day a breeze.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:21:36.097Z

When I first started making this casserole, I was amazed at how all the flavors melded together in such a beautiful way. The ground beef, rice, and veggies cook uniformly, with each bite bursting with flavor. I remember experimenting with seasonings, and a sprinkle of paprika and oregano really elevated the dish. The best part is how easy it is to put together; everything goes in one dish, making cleanup a snap!

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the beef for turkey or even add in extra veggies depending on what you have on hand. Once, I added some black beans for additional protein, and it turned out fantastic! This dish is a wonderful canvas for your creativity in the kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Hearty and filling, perfect for family dinners
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Leftovers are just as delicious the next day

Perfecting the Rice

One of the most crucial elements in a successful Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the rice itself. Long-grain rice works well because it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Remember, using the right amount of liquid is key; too much, and you'll end up with mushy rice. For this recipe, the combination of 2 cups of beef broth with the rice ensures it absorbs enough moisture while getting infused with that savory flavor during baking.

If you're looking for a quicker option, you can opt for instant rice, reducing the cooking time significantly. Just make sure to adjust the liquid slightly, as instant rice typically requires less. However, when using instant rice, keep an eye on the baking time to prevent overcooking, which can lead to a gloppy texture.

Flavorful Variations

Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your family's taste preferences! Adding other veggies like zucchini or carrots can enhance the nutritional value and add extra flavor. Sautéing these vegetables with the onion and garlic not only helps meld their flavors but also ensures they soften perfectly by the time the casserole is done baking.

For those looking to spice things up, you can add a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a zesty kick. Alternatively, swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken provides a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. If you're serving someone with dietary restrictions, using vegetable broth and loading up on veggies instead of meat can create a satisfying vegetarian casserole.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it's no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Mix the Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, rice, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil, add cheese if desired, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while browning.

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal! Prepare the entire dish up to the baking point, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to account for the cold temperature. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting a crowd.

You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the usual baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed for the rice to cook through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with a side of fresh salad or steamed veggies to round out the meal. A tangy vinaigrette or a dollop of sour cream on top can elevate the dish with added richness or acidity, balancing the hearty flavors of the casserole.

For a fun twist, consider topping each serving with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy texture that complements the soft, fluffy casserole. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort, making it a hearty meal that your family will look forward to repeating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and add a bit more liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I add to make it more nutritious?

Adding veggies like spinach, carrots, or zucchini is a great way to increase the nutritional value!

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.