There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of home cooking—simple, hearty, and filled with love. This creamy beef and rice casserole brings all of that to the table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy dinner recipe after a long day or someone craving a nostalgic meal that feels like a warm hug, this recipe delivers. It’s rich, cheesy, and satisfying—everything you want in a classic baked casserole. Plus, it comes together with pantry staples, making it ideal for weeknight cooking.

The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy, savory sauce creates a dish that’s both filling and budget-friendly. Best of all, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it one of those family-friendly comfort food recipes you’ll come back to again and again.

 

 

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground beef
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup Sour cream
• ½ cup Milk
• 1½ cups Cooked white rice
• 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Frozen peas (optional)
• 1 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

 

 

How to Make Creamy Beef & Rice Casserole

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, cook ground beef, chopped onion, and garlic over medium heat. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are tender. Drain any excess grease.

3. Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Add the cooked beef mixture, cooked rice, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If using, stir in frozen peas.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

5. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is golden and melted.

6. Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

• Easy to Make – Simple steps and no complicated ingredients
• One-Dish Meal – Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one
• Ultra-Cheesy & Creamy – A guaranteed hit with cheese lovers
• Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food – Loved by kids and adults alike
• Great for Leftovers – Perfect for meal prep or next-day lunch

 

 

Simple Variations

• Make it spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
• Add veggies – Mix in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers
• Swap the meat – Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
• Try a different soup – Cream of chicken or celery soup works well too
• Top it off – Add a crunchy topping of crushed crackers or French fried onions before baking

 

 

Helpful Tips for Success

• Use freshly cooked rice or reheated leftovers (not cold from the fridge—it may clump)
• Drain the beef well after browning to avoid a greasy casserole
• Shred your own cheese for best meltability and flavor
• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing—this helps it set

 

 

FAQs

• Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole a few hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.

• Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight and bake until warmed through.

• What can I serve with this casserole?

Pair it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted carrots for a balanced dinner.

• Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

 

 

A Cozy Dinner Everyone Will Love

This creamy ground beef and rice casserole is more than just an easy meal—it’s a warm, nostalgic dish that brings people together around the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers that taste even better the next day, this comforting recipe belongs in your weekly rotation.