Ground Beef Casserole

This Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s a delicious blend of savory ground beef, creamy soup, and mixed vegetables, all topped with gooey cheddar cheese. This casserole not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about an hour, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors and textures that kids love, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
• One-Dish Wonder: With everything cooked in one baking dish, cleanup is a breeze!
• Leftover Friendly: This casserole reheats well, making it great for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this easy recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready allows for smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Cooking spray
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions since they have high sides to prevent splatters.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for baking casseroles evenly, helping to achieve that golden cheese crust.

Ingredients

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with beef, vegetables, and cheese, it’s a family favorite.

For the Casserole Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small sweet onion, small diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of celery soup
• 1 ½ cups beef stock
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice and Vegetables

• 1 cup instant rice
• 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables

For Topping

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 small sweet onion.
2. Break up the beef into crumbles while stirring often until there is no pink left and the onions are softened (about 10 minutes).
3. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the mixture:
1. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine the Base Ingredients

Stir in:
– 2 (10.5 ounce) cans of cream of celery soup
– 1 ½ cups of beef stock
– 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper

Mix well until combined.

Step 5: Add Rice and Vegetables

Add:
– 1 cup instant rice
– 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables
to the mixture:
1. Stir everything together until well-combined.
2. Transfer this mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle:
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
on top of the casserole:
1. Cover with nonstick foil.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 45 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.

Step 7: Broil for a Golden Finish

Uncover the casserole:
1. Place it under the broiler briefly to brown the cheese lightly.
2. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley before serving!

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Serving Ground Beef Casserole is a delightful experience that allows you to customize each plate. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish with your family and friends.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers balances the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the cheesy flavors of the casserole perfectly.

Add a Bread Component

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes for a hearty side that everyone loves.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate.

Upgrade with Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess and a tangy flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions for a pop of color and added freshness.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Casserole

To achieve the best version of your Ground Beef Casserole, consider these helpful tips. They can elevate your dish from good to great!

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile. This can include adding more garlic or experimenting with different seasonings.
• Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ground beef and cheese. This will significantly improve the taste and texture of your casserole.
• Layering Technique: Layer the ingredients in your baking dish rather than just mixing them. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve.
• Variations on Vegetables: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Ground Beef Casserole enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your meal.
2. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a nice contrast to the savory casserole.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers freshness and acidity that balances out the richness of the casserole.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair wonderfully, making this a filling comfort food feast.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a fun finger food that brings sweetness to the table.
6. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the savory flavors in your casserole for a delightful pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Beef Casserole, certain mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Aim for just browning until there’s no pink left, then remove it from heat to maintain tenderness.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting spices can leave your casserole bland. Be sure to incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning for rich flavor.

• Using uncooked rice: Adding raw rice without enough liquid will result in crunchy grains. Use instant rice as specified in the recipe for perfect texture.

• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to sit for a few minutes after baking for better serving.

• Ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese may affect the taste and meltability. Opt for sharp cheddar for a richer flavor that enhances the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Ground Beef Casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ground Beef Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Ground Beef Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between sessions.

• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ground Beef Casserole?

Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty dish made with ground beef, rice, vegetables, and cheese, perfect for family dinners.

How do I customize my Ground Beef Casserole?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for added spice.

Can I use leftover ground beef?

Yes! Leftover cooked ground beef works great in this casserole. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long does Ground Beef Casserole last in the fridge?

It lasts about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I prepare Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time; just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while customization options allow you to tailor it to your family’s tastes. Give this comforting dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!