A comforting cheesy ground beef and rice casserole made with seasoned beef, tender rice, tomatoes, creamy sauce, and lots of melted cheese. This easy slow cooker meal is perfect for busy family dinners.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours
- Total Time: About 4 hours
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
Casserole Base
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup corn (optional)
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Method
1. Cook the Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add ground beef and onion.
Cook until beef is browned and fully cooked.
Drain extra grease.
Add garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
2. Prepare Slow Cooker
Add cooked beef mixture into the slow cooker.
Add:
- Cooked rice
- Diced tomatoes
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Beef broth
- Sour cream
- Corn
Mix everything together well.
3. Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
LOW: 3–4 hours
or
HIGH: 1½–2 hours
until flavors combine.
4. Add Cheese
Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover for another 10–15 minutes until cheese melts.
5. Serve
Garnish with parsley.
Serve warm with tortilla chips, salad, or garlic bread.
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly cooked rice for the best texture.
- Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- For a spicy version, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option.
- Do not overcook after adding cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Tortilla chips
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Pickles
Storage
- Refrigerator: 3–4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
Reheat gently in microwave or oven.
Approximate Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
| Calcium | 260 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQs
1. Can I use uncooked rice?
Yes, but adjust the liquid and cooking time because rice absorbs more moisture.
2. Can I make this without cream soup?
Yes, replace it with homemade white sauce or extra cream cheese.
3. Can I use different cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Colby, or Mexican cheese blends work well.
4. Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate before slow cooking.
5. How do I make it healthier?
Use lean beef, brown rice, low-fat dairy, and add more vegetables.
Final Result: A warm, cheesy, hearty casserole packed with beef, rice, and creamy flavors—an easy comfort meal the whole family will love.
