Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction: A Hearty and Delicious Cheesy Casserole
If you’re looking for a simple, hearty, and incredibly flavorful dinner, this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a perfect choice. Packed with juicy ground beef, tender rice, creamy sour cream, and a crispy cheddar crust, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth to any meal.
✔️ Easy to prepare – No complicated steps!
✔️ Rich and creamy texture – Thanks to sour cream and tomato sauce.
✔️ Golden, cheesy crust – A layer of crispy cheddar makes every bite irresistible.
✔️ Perfect for meal prep – Make it ahead and reheat for quick dinners.
Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
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Ingredients: What You’ll Need
For the Casserole
✔️ 1 lb ground beef
✔️ 1 cup cooked rice
✔️ 1 small onion, diced
✔️ 1/2 cup tomato sauce
✔️ 1/2 cup sour cream
✔️ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
✔️ 1 teaspoon paprika
✔️ 1/2 teaspoon salt
✔️ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheddar Crust
✔️ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
✔️ 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional, for extra flavor)
✔️ 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes until soft.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Season and Add Tomato Sauce
Stir in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Pour in the tomato sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine:
✔️ Cooked rice
✔️ Sour cream
✔️ Beef mixture
Stir until evenly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking dish (9×13 inches).
Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in the dish.
Step 5: Add the Cheddar Crust
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Add oregano and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown
🔥 Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy this cheesy, beefy goodness with a side salad or garlic bread!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Cheesy and Comforting – The crispy cheddar crust adds the perfect crunch.
✔️ Full of Protein and Carbs – Keeps you full and satisfied.
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples.
✔️ Great for Leftovers – Even better the next day!
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Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Casserole
✅ Use freshly shredded cheddar – It melts better than pre-packaged cheese.
✅ Brown the beef properly – A little caramelization adds flavor.
✅ Spice it up – Add chili flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
✅ Customize it – Try it with ground turkey or sausage for variety.
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Variations & Customizations
🥦 Add Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
🌶 Make it Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
🧄 Garlic Butter Flavor: Brush garlic butter on top before baking.
🥓 Bacon Lover’s Version: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the cheese.
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How to Store & Reheat
🛍 To Store:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 To Reheat:
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
❄️ To Freeze:
Freeze uncooked casserole (without cheese topping) for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
💡 A balanced, protein-packed meal that’s rich in flavor!
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Final Thoughts: The Best Cheddar-Crusted Casserole Ever!
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect comfort food—rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s easy to make, customizable, and great for family dinners.
✔️ Full of cheesy, beefy goodness
✔️ Quick to assemble and bake
✔️ Perfect for meal prep or leftovers
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Enjoy this warm, comforting casserole any night of the week! 🧀🍛🔥
