If you’re building a meal plan full of cozy, satisfying dinners that are easy to prep and sure to please, this Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese needs to be on the list. It’s warm, cheesy, beefy goodness in every bite—and the leftovers are just as good the next day.
Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family, this casserole is a one-dish wonder that combines convenience and comfort in every spoonful.
Why This Casserole Belongs in Your Weekly Meal Plan
Casseroles are a meal plan MVP—and this one delivers on every front:
🥘 One Pan, Full Meal
You’ve got protein, grains, veggies, and cheese all in one dish. No need to fuss with sides unless you want to!
🔁 Easy to Prep Ahead
Make it on Sunday, and reheat throughout the week. It stores beautifully and gets even more flavorful over time.
💸 Budget-Friendly
Ground beef, rice, and pantry staples come together in a way that feels hearty and indulgent—without breaking the bank.
Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese: The Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 cup long grain white or brown rice (uncooked)
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1 medium onion, chopped
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1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
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2 cups beef broth
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1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach for extra veggies
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, cook ground beef with onion and bell pepper until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in uncooked rice, soup, broth, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Pour mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish.
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Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
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Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
How to Work This Casserole Into Your Meal Plan
🍽️ Serving Ideas:
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Serve with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for balance
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Scoop into lunch containers for work or school
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Wrap leftovers in tortillas for quick burritos
🧊 Storage Tips:
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Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days
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Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months
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Reheat in oven or microwave—just add a splash of broth to keep it moist
Final Thoughts: Cheesy, Hearty, and Meal Plan-Approved
There’s something about a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven that says home. This Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese is the kind of feel-good, no-fuss recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your meal plan rotation.
Make it once and enjoy the warm, cheesy leftovers for days. Trust us—everyone will be asking for seconds.
Keywords: meal plan, beef and rice casserole, cheesy casserole recipe, hearty family dinners, easy ground beef recipe, meal prep casserole, comfort food recipe
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