A creamy, cheesy, beefy casserole made with tender rice, flavorful ground beef, and a gooey cheese topping. Perfect for family dinners or easy meal prep.
1 lb ground beef (80–85% lean)
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (3 cups cooked)
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup sour cream
½ cup tomato sauce (optional)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Nonstick spray or butter, for greasing
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Cook rice according to package directions. Set aside.
In a skillet, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain fat.
Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Add cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, tomato sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Mix beef mixture with cooked rice and 1½ cups cheese.
Spread in casserole dish, top with remaining cheese.
Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 more until bubbly.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Add veggies like peas, peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition. Swap beef with turkey for a lighter version. Freezes well for up to 3 months.