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A close-up of the bubbly, cheesy topping on the ground beef and rice casserole fresh out of the oven in a baking dish.

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole (Without Soup!)

An easy, cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole made from scratch without canned soup! This hearty and flavorful recipe is the perfect weeknight comfort food dinner that the entire family will love.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs lean ground beef 85/15 or 90/10 recommended
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 3 cups beef broth low-sodium
  • 15 oz canned tomato sauce
  • 15 oz canned diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper or to taste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Skillet or Dutch Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  5. Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best results, shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses contain additives that can make them melt less smoothly.
Tip 2: Feel free to add a cup of frozen corn or peas along with the rice for extra veggies.
Tip 3: Ensure the casserole is covered tightly with foil for the initial bake to trap steam and cook the rice properly.