Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Name: Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; ½ cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers; 1 tablespoon melted butter

October 6, 2025

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Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Indulge in the comforting embrace of our Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole—a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, savory vegetables, and a crispy cheddar topping. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this one-pan wonder is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Growing up, my mom would prepare this casserole on chilly evenings, filling our home with its irresistible aroma. The combination of tender beef, creamy rice, and melted cheddar always brought us together around the dinner table, creating memories that still warm my heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: A satisfying blend of beef, rice, and vegetables that warms you from the inside out.
Easy One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup with all ingredients baked together in a single dish.
Customizable: Adapt the recipe to your taste by adding or substituting vegetables and proteins.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or opt for ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
1 small onion, diced: Adds a savory base flavor; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall aroma; garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste; consider using sea salt for a different flavor profile.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides the best flavor; white pepper can be used for a milder taste.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth; regular paprika can be used if unavailable.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a hint of earthiness; basil can be used as an alternative.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami; soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Provides a fluffy texture; brown rice can be used for added fiber.
2 cups beef broth: Enhances flavor; chicken broth can be used as an alternative.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess; cream of chicken soup is a suitable substitute.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Adds a touch of acidity; fresh diced tomatoes can be used if preferred.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots: Provides color and nutrition; mixed vegetables can be used as an alternative.
½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess; Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient; substitute with mozzarella for a milder flavor.
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers: Creates a crispy topping; panko breadcrumbs can be used as an alternative.
1 tablespoon melted butter: Helps bind the topping; olive oil can be used as a substitute.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, approximately 5–7 minutes. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until softened. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, drained diced tomatoes, frozen peas and carrots, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to cook.

Step 5: Make the Cheddar Crust

In a separate bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, crushed Ritz crackers, and melted butter. After 35 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven, discard the foil, and evenly sprinkle the cheddar crust mixture over the top.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve alongside a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

As I prepared this casserole, the familiar scent of melting cheddar and savory beef filled the kitchen, transporting me back to those cherished family dinners. Each bite was a reminder of the love and warmth that this dish has always brought to our table.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Rice: Use brown rice for added fiber, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or green beans to suit your taste.
Cheese: Swap sharp cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Cracker Topping: Use panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy topping.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
Beverages: Complement the dish with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a refreshing iced tea.
Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the casserole before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

Cultural Notes / A Little History

Casseroles have long been a staple in American cuisine, especially in the Midwest, where they are known for their convenience and comforting qualities. This particular dish combines elements of classic comfort foods, such as beef and rice, with a modern twist of a cheesy crust, making it a beloved choice for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Pro Tips

Use Cooked Rice for a Faster Bake Time: If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the broth to 1 cup and bake for 20–25 minutes instead.
Make It Extra Creamy: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheese into the casserole mixture before baking for a richer flavor.
Boost the Crunch: For a crispier topping, broil for the last 2–3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the cheese topping just before baking.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but increase the broth to 2 ½ cups and bake for an extra 10–15 minutes since brown rice takes longer to cook.
What can I serve with this casserole? Great side dishes include steamed vegetables, garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
How do I keep my casserole from being dry? Make sure to use enough liquid and don’t overbake. Covering it with foil for the first part of baking helps retain moisture.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the ground beef first, then mix all ingredients (except the topping) in a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. Add the cheddar topping in the last 30 minutes.