Ground Beef And Rice Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Planning

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef And Rice Casserole on busy weeknights. It’s a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a blend of spices that come together beautifully in one pot. The best part? It requires minimal prep time and yields a hearty meal that the whole family can enjoy. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a staple in my home. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up any leftover vegetables you might have on hand.

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:57:36.095Z

Creating this Ground Beef And Rice Casserole has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; I was pleasantly surprised by how effortless it was. The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and seasoned beef is really what sets the foundation for a rich flavor profile. I highly recommend using fresh herbs to elevate the dish even further.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the seasonings. Making it a regular on my dinner rotation has not only saved me time but has also turned into a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any family dinner
One-pot wonder means minimal clean-up after a delicious meal
Versatile for personal touches with various veggies and spices

The Beauty of One-Pot Cooking

One of the standout features of this Ground Beef And Rice Casserole is its one-pot method. This technique not only simplifies cooking but also intensifies the flavors. By combining all the ingredients in a single dish, the beef, rice, and spices meld together beautifully, resulting in a cohesive flavor profile. Just remember to select a baking dish that can accommodate the mixture comfortably, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid evenly.

When it comes to choosing your skillet, I recommend a large, deep one that can transition from stovetop to oven. This will save you from dirtying multiple pots and pans. Look for a robust option that’s oven-safe, such as cast iron or stainless steel. These materials retain heat well and ensure even cooking as the casserole bakes.

Ingredient Adjustments and Variations

This casserole is incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have available. For instance, if you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes. You can also replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may require slightly less cooking time due to its lower fat content, so watch it closely while browning.

In terms of spices, you can experiment with your favorite blends. Adding a dash of cumin or chili powder can give your casserole an extra kick. If you're looking to enhance its nutritional value, consider throwing in some diced bell peppers or spinach during the mixing stage. These additions not only boost the vegetable count but also add vibrant color to your dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish

With these ingredients at hand, you’re ready to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your casserole:

Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

Combine the Other Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, uncooked rice, beef broth, paprika, oregano, and season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, add cheese if desired, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Now that you've mastered the steps, enjoy your delicious casserole!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with various vegetables such as bell peppers or corn to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef And Rice Casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a splash more beef broth if it seems dry when you are ready to cook, as the rice may absorb some of the liquid during storage.

If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. To do this, bake as normal, then cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can remain frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, I like to pair this casserole with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the casserole perfectly. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sliced green onions on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

For a family-style gathering, consider using a larger baking dish to double the recipe, ensuring there’s enough to go around. Just increase the cooking time slightly and monitor the casserole's progress to achieve that comforting, golden-brown finish. This way, everyone can enjoy a hearty helping of this satisfying dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Brown rice typically takes about 45 minutes to cook.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives.

→ Can I make this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to eat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.