Name: Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces egg noodles; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 pound lean ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 3/4 cup sour cream; 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, room temperature; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ground Beef CasseroleRecipe

This dish is simple to make with minimal prep, budget‑friendly ingredients, and hearty flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. It bakes all in one dish, cooks the rice right in the casserole (no stovetop pre‑cooking needed), and can be easily customized with different veggies, seasonings, or protein swaps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon steak seasoning
1 cup sliced carrots (or mixed vegetables)
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
9 sandwich‑style slices Colby Jack cheese
optional – parsley to garnish (dried or fresh)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Stir in the steak seasoning. Drain any excess fat if needed.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sliced carrots (or veggies), cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and uncooked rice. Mix until evenly combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 60 minutes.
After 60 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes so the rice can finish cooking and absorb the liquid.
Remove the casserole from the oven and lay the Colby Jack cheese slices evenly on top. Return to the oven and bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
Sprinkle with parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Protein swaps: Use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Veggie add‑ins: Swap or add peas, corn, green beans, or bell peppers.
• Cheese changes: Try cheddar, pepper jack, or a shredded cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
• Seasoning twists: Replace steak seasoning with taco seasoning, Italian herbs, or Cajun spices for a new twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

What type of rice should I use in this casserole?

Use long grain white rice so it cooks properly with the liquid during baking; other rice types may need adjusted liquid or cooking times.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes — prepare it up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2–3 months; bake from frozen, adding extra bake time if needed.

Do I have to cook the rice before adding it?

No — the rice cooks right in the casserole as it bakes.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

Cream of chicken soup works well, or you can use a homemade white sauce for a scratch version.

Can I use shredded cheese instead of slices?

Absolutely — shredded cheese works great; just sprinkle it evenly on top before baking.

How do I make this casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne, use pepper jack cheese, or incorporate taco seasoning for heat.

Is this recipe gluten‑free?

It can be gluten‑free if you use gluten‑free cream soup and check that your seasonings and broth are gluten‑free.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I add extra vegetables to boost nutrition?

Yes — bell peppers, peas, or spinach can be stirred in for added nutrition and color.

Conclusion

This cheesy ground beef casserole is a comforting, easy casserole that brings together simple pantry staples and hearty flavor. With straightforward steps, room for customization, and satisfying cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a regular favorite for family dinners and meal prepping alike.