Ground Beef And Rice Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Favorites

I absolutely adore comforting dishes, and this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a staple in my kitchen. It combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices into one delicious, hearty meal that everyone in the family loves. As I bake it in the oven, the scents of garlic and onion fill my home, making it impossible to resist. This dish not only satisfies my cravings but also provides a great way to use up ingredients I have on hand, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:45:36.224Z

When I first discovered this recipe, it quickly became a favorite for its convenience and rich flavor profile. The mix of ground beef and spices brings a comforting warmth, and I love that I can simply combine everything in one dish and let the oven do the work. It's a great time-saver when I’m short on time but still want to serve a satisfying meal.

After several attempts, I found that adding some shredded cheese just before it's finished baking creates a delightful topping that brings everything together perfectly. This casserole travels well too, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for family meals
Simple to make with pantry staples
One-dish convenience that minimizes clean-up

Key Techniques for Perfect Casserole

To achieve a flavorful base in your Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, make sure to brown the beef thoroughly. This step not only enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction but also helps to develop a rich foundation for your casserole. Cook the beef until it's just brown, with no pink remaining, and ensure the onions are translucent before adding the other ingredients. This typically takes about 7-10 minutes over medium heat.

When combining the ingredients, take care to mix them thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution. The uncooked rice will absorb moisture and flavors from the beef broth and tomatoes, so it's important that every grain is coated with the liquid mixture. A good tip is to scrape the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any browned bits, as they add depth to the flavor.

Ingredient Insights

Ground beef serves as the heart of this dish, providing richness and a meaty texture. Depending on your preference, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but adjust the cooking time as these may cook faster. Additionally, if you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, replacing the beef with lentils can yield a hearty meal while still keeping it filling.

The use of beef broth instead of water is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor profile of the casserole. You can also opt for low-sodium versions if you are watching your salt intake. For a touch of acidity, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice before baking, which can brighten up the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps it cook evenly and avoids a cold center during baking.

If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze portions for longer storage. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.

Ingredients

For the casserole

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

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Combine ingredients

Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

Bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, add cheese if using, and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty casserole!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using flavored broth or add fresh herbs like parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a balanced meal, I love pairing this casserole with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness of a salad complements the hearty casserole well, helping to round out the meal. You could easily add some diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream on top when serving for an extra layer of creaminess.

Consider garnishing the casserole with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole ends up a bit too dry, it could be due to insufficient liquid. Be sure to measure your rice and beef broth accurately, as the rice absorbs the liquid during cooking. If using brown rice, remember it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust your broth quantity accordingly.

On the flip side, if the casserole is a bit too soupy, it might be that the rice did not absorb enough liquid, possibly due to overcrowding in the dish. In such cases, you can bake it uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to help evaporate excess moisture and reach that perfect creamy consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and possibly the liquid.

→ Can this recipe be frozen?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to three months. Just thaw and bake when ready.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative.

→ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.