GROUND BEEF AND RICE CASSEROLE

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, made with seasoned ground beef, rice, and a creamy sauce, is the perfect dish for busy nights. With most of the cooking done in the oven, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a family-friendly favorite everyone will love!

Equipment

  • 1 9×13 casserole dish

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • ½ onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix (packet mix, not premade dressing)
  • 1 cup long grain rice (uncooked)
  • 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
  • 10.5 ounces cheddar cheese soup
  • 12 ounces can evaporated milk
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 cup fried onions
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F. Prepare a non-stick 9×13 casserole dish.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain any excess grease if desired. Add the ranch seasoning mix and diced onions. Cook until the onions are softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese soup, evaporated milk, and water. Mix until well combined.
  • Top the mixture with shredded cheddar cheese and fried onions.
  • Transfer the beef and rice mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Cover the dish tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 55 minutes.
  • After 55 minutes, remove the foil and return the casserole to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the top to set.
  • For a golden, crispy top, place the casserole under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Let the casserole sit, loosely covered with foil, for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes: If you don’t have heavy-duty aluminum foil, cover the casserole with two pieces of regular foil to ensure it’s sealed properly.