If you are looking for a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining juicy ground beef, tender rice, and a melty blend of cheese and salsa con queso, every bite is packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. It is one of those recipes that comes together in no time but leaves a lasting impression with its rich, savory goodness. Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd, this casserole brings everyone to the table with smiles and seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, carefully chosen to create layers of flavor, creamy textures, and a touch of spice that make this casserole irresistible. Each component plays a vital role, from the savory ground beef to the zesty Rotel tomatoes, ensuring your dish is bursting with taste and color.
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10): Provides a hearty, flavorful base without too much grease.
- 2 cups instant rice: Cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious juices perfectly.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth, infusing the rice with extra flavor.
- 1 cup salsa con queso: Brings creamy, cheesy spice that enhances every bite.
- 2 cups shredded nacho cheese: Creates that luscious, melty topping everyone loves.
- 1 cup diced yellow onion: Adds sweetness and savory complexity.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- 10.5 oz can Rotel tomatoes: Introduces a zesty, slightly spicy kick to brighten flavors.
- Salt to taste: Balances and elevates all ingredients.
- Pepper to taste: Gives just the right amount of subtle heat.
- Onion powder to taste: Boosts the onion flavor without overpowering.
How to Make Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Brown the Beef
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef, diced yellow onions, and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions are soft, which should take about 8 minutes. Make sure to break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy but don’t rinse the pan—those flavorful bits will add richness.
Step 2: Season and Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and onion powder, adjusting to your taste. Pour in the entire can of Rotel tomatoes along with their juices and the 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil and stir everything well to combine the flavors, which typically takes about 3 minutes. This step is critical because it blends the savory, spicy, and broth elements that will soak into the rice.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Once boiling, add the instant rice to the skillet. Cover with a tight lid and reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook undisturbed for 10 minutes—resisting the urge to lift the lid helps steam the rice perfectly so it becomes tender and fluffy. The rice will soak up all the delicious liquid from the broth, tomatoes, and beef juices, making every grain flavorful.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese Sauces
After the rice is tender, stir in the salsa con queso and shredded nacho cheese. Mix gently until all the cheese melts smoothly into the casserole, creating a decadent, creamy finish that holds all the ingredients together. This final step takes about 4 minutes, and the cheese not only adds flavor but also gives the casserole a beautiful, gooey texture that will have everyone asking for more.
How to Serve Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or green onions on top to add a burst of fresh color and mild flavor contrast. For a little extra zing, a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado bring creamy coolness alongside the warm, cheesy casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. You can also serve it with warm tortilla chips or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add some crunchy texture and brighten the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try spooning this casserole into individual oven-safe ramekins and topping with extra cheese for mini personal servings. It also works great when layered into a casserole dish topped with crushed tortilla chips for a crispy finish, perfect for potlucks or family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the casserole cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It retains moisture well and the flavors continue to meld, sometimes tasting even better the next day.
Freezing
This Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, removing excess air. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the casserole feels dry, add a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess and warmth without overcooking the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While shredded nacho cheese lends a classic, melty texture, you can substitute with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for varied flavor profiles.
Is instant rice necessary for this recipe?
Instant rice is recommended because it cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors perfectly in this one-pan dish, keeping prep time short and simple without compromising taste.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein or beans for a hearty, meat-free version that still delivers on flavor and comfort.
How spicy is this casserole?
The spiciness depends largely on the salsa con queso and Rotel tomatoes you use. You can control the heat level by choosing mild or spicy versions to suit your taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
While this recipe is quick to make fresh, you can prepare the beef and rice mixture in advance, then stir in the cheese right before baking or reheating to preserve the cheesy melt.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe is genuinely one of those meals that feels like a celebration of simple home cooking. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with comforting ingredients that make dinner feel special regardless of the occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch it become a regular favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful Ground Beef Rice Casserole combining seasoned ground beef, instant rice, zesty Rotel tomatoes, and plenty of melty cheese for a comforting weeknight meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10)
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Grains and Liquids
- 2 cups instant rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Flavorings and Dairy
- 1 cup salsa con queso
- 2 cups shredded nacho cheese
- 10.5 oz can Rotel tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Onion powder to taste
Instructions
- Prep & Brown: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the lean ground beef, diced yellow onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Season & Add: Add salt, pepper, and onion powder to taste along with the Rotel tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil, continuing to stir for about 3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Rice Cooking: Stir in the instant rice, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and simmer without lifting the lid for 10 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Cheese Finish: Remove the lid and stir in the salsa con queso and shredded nacho cheese until the cheeses melt completely and the casserole is creamy, about 4 minutes. Serve the casserole hot.
Notes
- Use 90/10 lean ground beef to reduce grease and keep the dish flavorful.
- Do not lift the lid while the rice cooks to ensure it steams properly.
- Adjust the amount of cheese and salsa queso based on your preference for creaminess and spice level.
- This dish can be doubled for larger families or meal prep.
- Leftovers store well and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
