Cheesy Baked Beef Rice: 1 Easy Comfort Meal

Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

Cheesy baked beef rice has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially on those chilly evenings when only a hearty, warm meal will do. I remember the first time I made this easy cheesy beef rice bake; the aroma of savory beef, fragrant spices, and melting cheese filling my kitchen was pure bliss. It quickly became a family favorite because it’s such a simple yet incredibly satisfying one-pan cheesy beef and rice dish. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

This one-pan wonder is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Here’s why it’s about to become your new favorite:

  • Effortless One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks together, meaning less cleanup and more relaxation.
  • Incredibly Cheesy: We’re talking a generous amount of melted cheese that makes this a true comfort food cheesy beef rice casserole.
  • Kid-Approved Flavor: The savory beef, mild spices, and gooey cheese are a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
  • Quick Prep Time: You can have this baked cheesy ground beef rice ready to go in under an hour.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Easily add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level.
  • Hearty and Filling: Packed with beef, rice, and beans, it’s a complete meal that satisfies.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for lunches.

Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful cheesy rice bake with ground beef:

  • 1 pound ground beef – the savory base of our dish
  • 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown) – I prefer white rice for quicker cooking, but brown works too!
  • 1 medium onion, diced – about 1 cup, for aromatic depth. For more on the benefits of onions, check out this article.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds that essential garlic flavor
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained – provides moisture and a touch of acidity. Learn more about tomatoes here.
  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained – for a pop of sweetness and texture
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained – these add heartiness and fiber to our cheesy rice casserole ground beef recipe
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix) – use your favorite! A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack is amazing.
  • 2 cups beef broth or water – the liquid to cook the rice and meld flavors
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder – for a mild, warm spice
  • 1 teaspoon cumin – adds an earthy, smoky note
  • Salt and pepper to taste – to season perfectly
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional) – for a fresh finish

Cheesy Baked Beef Rice: 1 Easy Comfort Meal - Cheesy Baked Beef Rice - additional detail

How to Make Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

Let’s get this delicious one-pan cheesy beef and rice casserole cooking! It’s simpler than you think.

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes up perfectly.
  2. Step 2: In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and smells fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Add the 1 pound ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with your spatula. You’ll know it’s ready when there’s no pink left, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat so your baked cheesy ground beef rice isn’t greasy.
  4. Step 4: Stir in the 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until the spices coat the beef, releasing their wonderful aroma.
  5. Step 5: Now, add the 1 cup uncooked rice to the skillet. Follow with the undrained diced tomatoes, drained corn, rinsed and drained kidney beans, and 2 cups beef broth (or water). Stir it all together until everything is evenly distributed. This is where all the flavors start to meld for your easy cheesy beef rice bake.
  6. Step 6: Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling slightly, cover the skillet tightly and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for allowing the rice to absorb that flavorful liquid, getting it perfectly tender for your cheesy rice bake with ground beef.
  7. Step 7: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle about half of the 2 cups shredded cheese over the top. Gently stir it in; the residual heat will start melting it beautifully.
  8. Step 8: If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Otherwise, you can leave it right in the skillet. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the surface.
  9. Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for that glorious moment when the cheese is bubbly, golden brown, and looks absolutely irresistible. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you this cheesy baked rice with beef is ready!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

Want to elevate your comfort food game? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve for making this cheesy rice casserole ground beef recipe truly shine:

  • Use good quality ground beef, around 80/20 or 90/10 for the best flavor and moisture.
  • Don’t skip browning the beef properly; it builds a deep flavor base for your one-pan cheesy beef and rice.
  • Ensure your rice is evenly distributed before baking so it cooks uniformly.
  • If you love extra cheesiness, consider adding a layer of cheese halfway through baking.

Cheesy Baked Beef Rice: 1 Easy Comfort Meal - Cheesy Baked Beef Rice - additional detail

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Baked Beef Rice?

The real secret to a perfect cheesy baked rice with beef is the panade created by sautéing the aromatics and beef before adding the liquid and rice. This step builds incredible depth of flavor, making your simple cheesy baked rice beef dish taste like it came from a restaurant. For a similar depth of flavor in pasta dishes, try this Pappardelle with Beef Ragu.

Can I make Cheesy Baked Beef Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire cheesy baked beef rice casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Baked Beef Rice?

The most common pitfalls are using too little liquid, which can result in undercooked rice, or overcooking, which dries everything out. Always ensure your liquid-to-rice ratio is correct, and keep an eye on the bake time to avoid a dry cheesy ground beef rice bake recipe. For more on cooking grains, see this guide to barley.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

This cheesy baked beef and rice skillet is so versatile, it works as a main course or a hearty side. For a complete and satisfying dinner, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness of the cheesy rice bake with ground beef beautifully. Another great pairing for this comfort food cheesy beef rice casserole is steamed broccoli or green beans – simple, healthy, and they complement the savory flavors perfectly. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra pop!

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

This cheesy baked beef rice recipe is a hearty meal, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (this recipe makes approximately 5-6 servings):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of cheese and broth.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

One of the best things about this cheesy baked beef rice casserole is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep. Once your delicious cheesy rice bake with ground beef has cooled completely (this is important to prevent condensation!), scoop any leftovers into airtight containers. You can keep this simple cheesy baked rice beef in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a great option! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your baked cheesy ground beef rice again, simply reheat it. For refrigerated portions, a quick 2-3 minutes in the microwave or about 15-20 minutes in a 350°F (175°C) oven should do the trick. Frozen portions will need a bit longer; thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat as you would the refrigerated leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

Can I use different types of rice for this cheesy baked beef rice casserole?

You absolutely can! While white rice cooks faster and absorbs liquid well for this easy cheesy beef rice bake, brown rice is also a fantastic option. Just be aware that brown rice will require a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time, so you might need to adjust the simmering and baking stages accordingly. Quinoa is another healthy alternative for a variation of this cheesy rice bake with ground beef.

What vegetables can I add to my cheesy baked beef rice?

This ground beef and cheese rice casserole is super adaptable! I love adding a cup of frozen peas and carrots along with the corn and beans for extra color and nutrients. Diced bell peppers (any color!) sautéed with the onions also work wonderfully. Mushrooms, spinach, or even some diced zucchini can be stirred in during the last few minutes of simmering for a more robust cheesy baked rice with beef.

How do I make this a one-pot cheesy beef and rice dish without an oven-safe skillet?

No problem at all if your skillet isn’t oven-safe! Simply follow the instructions up to Step 6 in the skillet. Then, transfer the entire mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Gently stir in half the cheese, then top with the remaining cheese. Bake as directed in Step 9. You’ll still get a delicious one-pan cheesy beef and rice experience with minimal cleanup!

Is this cheesy rice casserole ground beef recipe spicy?

The base recipe uses chili powder and cumin, which provide a warm, savory flavor without being overly spicy. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can easily make this cheesy baked beef rice casserole easy spicier. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce along with the other spices in Step 4. You could also stir in some diced jalapeños with the onions for an extra kick in your cheesy baked beef rice.

Variations of Cheesy Baked Beef Rice You Can Try

This cheesy baked beef rice recipe is fantastic as is, but I love experimenting with it! Here are a few ways to switch up your comfort food cheesy beef rice casserole:

  • Spicy Southwest Cheesy Beef Rice Bake: Add a can of black beans instead of kidney beans, stir in some corn, and a pinch of cayenne pepper with the chili powder and cumin for a zesty kick. This makes for a flavorful cheesy baked beef rice with vegetables.
  • Creamy Chicken Cheesy Rice Bake: Swap the ground beef for cooked, shredded chicken and use chicken broth instead of beef broth. This variation offers a lighter, yet still incredibly creamy and cheesy rice bake with ground beef.
  • Slow Cooker Cheesy Baked Rice with Beef: For a hands-off approach, combine all ingredients (except the cheese) in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir in half the cheese during the last 30 minutes, top with the remaining cheese, and let it melt before serving this simple cheesy baked rice beef.
  • Vegetarian Cheesy Baked Rice: Omit the beef and use an extra can of beans (like black beans or pinto beans) or add sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian cheesy rice casserole ground beef recipe. For a vegetarian option, consider this Veggie Burger.
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Cheesy Baked Beef Rice

Cheesy Baked Beef Rice: 1 Easy Comfort Meal


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  • Author: Jessica
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting and hearty one-pan meal, this Cheesy Baked Beef & Rice Delight is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines ground beef, rice, kidney beans, and plenty of cheese for a satisfying and wholesome dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix)
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine.
  5. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, followed by the diced tomatoes, corn, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet, reducing the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the mixture, stirring gently to incorporate.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or leave it in the skillet if it is oven-safe. Top with the remaining cheese.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

  • Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic feel, or scoop portions into individual bowls.
  • Accompany with a side salad for a complete meal experience.
  • This is an easy cheesy beef rice bake that is perfect for dinner.
  • Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-Pan Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/5th of recipe)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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Hi! I’m Margaret!

A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

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