If you’re craving simple comfort food that’s both crowd-pleasing and stress-free, this Beef and Rice Casserole absolutely belongs on your dinner table. Juicy ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and onions mingle with tender rice, all wrapped in a rich, tomatoey broth and finished with a bubbling layer of melted cheddar. With its irresistibly hearty flavors and easy prep, this classic dish is the kind of warm, reliable favorite that holds memories and brings everyone running to the kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to Beef and Rice Casserole time and again.

Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing complicated here—just a handful of kitchen staples that turn into something magic when layered together. Each ingredient adds its own personality, whether it’s savory depth, a burst of color, or that crave-worthy cheesy finish.

1 lb ground beef: Go for lean or regular; this is the heart of your casserole and provides savory flavor and richness.
1 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth, blending beautifully with the beef.
1 green bell pepper (chopped): A touch of color and crispness—feel free to swap in another color if you like.
1 cup uncooked rice: Long-grain white rice gives the best texture, absorbing all those savory juices as it bakes.
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz, undrained): The tomatoes and juice add moisture and a tangy layer that brings the casserole together.
2 cups beef broth: This deepens the flavor and guarantees your rice comes out perfectly fluffy.
1 tsp salt: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Gives a little heat and complexity.
1 tsp garlic powder: Lends aromatic depth without the need for fresh garlic chopping.
1/2 tsp paprika: A little smokiness and subtle warmth work wonders here.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The salty, gooey topper that finishes the whole dish with a golden crown.

How to Make Beef and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before anything else, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is perfectly heated and ready for your assembled casserole, so you get even, tender results every time.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, stirring often to break it up, until no pink remains. Don’t skip draining the extra fat—this keeps your Beef and Rice Casserole from becoming greasy while letting the flavors shine through.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Bell Pepper

Stir in the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes. You’ll see the veggies soften, and their flavors mellow out, blending into the hearty base of your casserole.

Step 4: Add Rice, Tomatoes, Spices, and Broth

Sprinkle in your uncooked rice, then pour in the diced tomatoes (juice and all), beef broth, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Give it all a thorough stir, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is when your kitchen will start to smell positively irresistible.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Carefully pour everything into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly so every bite is packed with goodness. Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep all the moisture locked in as it cooks.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake, covered, for 45 minutes. The rice will soak up the broth and tomato juices, becoming fluffy and full of flavor.

Step 7: Add Cheddar Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the foil and scatter your shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes. You’re aiming for melty, bubbly cheese that turns golden at the edges.

Step 8: Let Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, give your Beef and Rice Casserole a few minutes to rest. This lets the flavors settle and makes serving easier. Then, dig in and savor every comforting bite!

How to Serve Beef and Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Scatter freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions over the top just before serving for a fresh pop of color and a subtle bite. If you want to spice things up, a drizzle of hot sauce or a spoonful of salsa on each serving works beautifully.

Side Dishes

While Beef and Rice Casserole is a meal on its own, you can round things out with a crisp green salad dressed simply or roasted green beans for extra veggies. Warm dinner rolls or crusty bread on the side make it even more comforting, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning the casserole into individual ramekins for cheery, single-serve portions at casual gatherings. For potlucks, bake in a disposable foil tray for easy transport. Or make a Tex-Mex twist by serving it with tortilla chips on the side and a bowl of guacamole.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Beef and Rice Casserole cool to room temperature before covering and storing it in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 4 days, and reheats wonderfully for quick lunches or another cozy dinner.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, this casserole freezes perfectly. Just make sure it cools completely, then cover it tightly with both plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave does the trick. To reheat larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until everything’s heated through and the cheese melts again. Add a splash of broth if needed to keep things moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice in this casserole?

Absolutely! While long-grain white rice gives the most classic texture, brown rice works too—just add about 15-20 minutes to the bake time and check for doneness before topping with cheese.

Is it possible to make Beef and Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole (without baking) up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, then pop it into the oven when you’re ready. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the final baking time if it goes in cold.

What other cheeses taste good in this casserole?

Cheddar is a classic pick, but you can swap it out or mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a different twist. Just make sure the cheese melts well for that signature gooey top.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, frozen corn, or peas are delicious additions. Just stir them in with the other veggies before baking, and they’ll soften up right along with everything else.

What’s the best way to make this casserole spicy?

If you like things with a kick, try adding a diced jalapeño pepper along with the bell pepper, or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or hot paprika with the spices.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about sitting down to a bubbling, golden-topped Beef and Rice Casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or making ahead for the week, this casserole delivers warmth, comfort, and a whole lot of flavor. Give it a try soon—it might just become a new favorite in your kitchen, too.

Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 19 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting beef and rice casserole that is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

Add chopped onion and bell pepper; sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in rice, tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Bring to a boil.
Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Remove foil, top with cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American