Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or other vegetable oil); 2 pounds ground beef ((90/10)); 4 tablespoons dried minced onion (or 1 medium yellow onion); 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 2 teaspoons kosher salt (or to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 4 minced garlic cloves); 2 cups unsalted chicken stock; 2 cups long grain white rice (rinsed until water runs clear); 2 cans Rotel Original; 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded or any melty cheese); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded or any melty cheese (for topping)); 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup cilantro

Introduction to Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a warm and comforting meal. Packed with flavor, melty cheese, and hearty ingredients, it brings the whole family together at the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a delicious home-cooked meal, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Journey

Growing up, my family loved gathering around the dinner table for hearty meals. One of our favorites was a cheesy casserole that my mother would whip up after a long day. The comforting aroma of ground beef and melted cheese wafting through the house always brought a smile to our faces. This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is inspired by those cherished family moments, and I’m excited to share it with you.

What Makes This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe Special?

What sets this casserole apart is its simplicity and rich flavors. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese creates a delightful texture and taste that is hard to resist. Additionally, it is cooked in an Instant Pot, which not only saves time but also enhances the flavors by cooking everything together perfectly. You can also customize it with your favorite toppings or serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.

The Full Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

1 tablespoon avocado oil or other vegetable oil
2 pounds ground beef (90/10)
4 tablespoons dried minced onion (or 1 medium yellow onion)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons kosher salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 4 minced garlic cloves)
2 cups unsalted chicken stock
2 cups long grain white rice, rinsed until water runs clear
2 cans Rotel Original
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or any melty cheese)
Optional Toppings:
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or any melty cheese)
Sour cream
Cilantro

Instructions

Prepare the Ground Beef: Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ and adjust the heat level to ‘More’. Allow the pot to heat up. Add oil when the display reads ‘Hot’. Cook the ground beef, breaking it into smaller pieces, for about 6 to 8 minutes until cooked through. Tip: Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat easily.
Mix in minced onion, chili powder, cumin, salt, and garlic powder. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Tip: Fresh garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
Add the Stock & Rice: Pour chicken stock into the pot and deglaze the bottom. Layer rice on top of the beef, pressing it down into the stock. Add Rotel over the rice without mixing.
Set the Cook Time: Close the Instant Pot, set the pressure release valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on ‘Manual’ / ‘Pressure Cook’, ‘High Pressure’ for 5 minutes. Allow a 10-minute NPR (natural pressure release) after cooking.
Add the Cheese: Once pressure is released, stir in the cheese until fully melted.
For a Cheesy Topping: CrispLid Method: Turn off and unplug the pressure cooker. Spread 1 cup of shredded cheese over the casserole. Place the CrispLid on top, set to 450°F, and cook until bubbly (about 2-3 minutes). Baking Dish Method: Transfer the casserole to a baking dish, spread 1 cup of cheese over the top, and broil until bubbly (about 2 minutes).
Serve and enjoy! Tip: For added flavor, consider topping with sour cream and fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This casserole can be served with a side of fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the cheesy goodness. For a twist, try adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the beef mixture before cooking. You can also swap out the cheese for a mix of different varieties, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, to give it a kick. The options are endless, and it’s a great way to use up leftovers!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in an oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure your chicken stock and any added toppings are gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for an extra kick.