Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole — One-Pan Comfort in Just 30 Minutes

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

A One-Pan Weeknight Comfort Classic

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a lifesaver on busy nights. The rice cooks right in a savory blend of beef broth and tomato sauce, soaking up all the rich flavors from the seasoned beef and aromatics. It’s hearty, cozy, and ready in about 30 minutes—plus, everything comes together in a single pan, making cleanup quick and easy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1½ cups beef broth
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: ½ cup corn, black beans, or green chilies

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the meat is fully browned. Drain off any excess fat. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Rice
Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Make It Cheesy
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top.

Step 4: Finish and Serve
Place the skillet under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving so it thickens and sets nicely.