(Easy Family Dinner Recipe | Budget-Friendly Comfort Food | High-Protein Meal Prep Idea)

If you’re searching for an easy weeknight dinner recipe, a budget-friendly family meal, or a high-protein comfort food casserole, this Cheesy Ground Beef & Mushroom Rice Casserole delivers big flavor with simple pantry ingredients. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, this baked casserole is creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying.

Perfect for meal prep recipes, family dinner ideas, and even freezer-friendly meals, this dish is ideal for busy households looking for affordable and filling dinner options.

🥘 Recipe Description

This baked casserole combines:

Juicy, seasoned ground beef
Golden sautéed mushrooms
Tender long-grain rice
Creamy sauce base
Gooey melted cheese topping
Fresh herbs for garnish

The result is a hearty, oven-baked rice dish that’s creamy without being heavy, rich without being greasy, and satisfying without requiring complicated techniques. It’s a classic American-style casserole that feels nostalgic yet customizable for modern diets.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6)

1 lb lean ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
2 ½ cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2️⃣ Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3️⃣ Add Mushrooms & Seasoning

Stir in garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms release moisture and become golden brown (about 5 minutes). Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4️⃣ Combine Ingredients

Add uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer for 3–4 minutes.

5️⃣ Bake

Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until rice is tender.

6️⃣ Add Cheese & Finish

Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.

7️⃣ Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve warm.

🍽 Nutritional Highlights

High-protein dinner recipe
Budget-friendly meal option
Family-friendly comfort food
Great for batch cooking and freezer storage
Customizable for keto, gluten-free, or low-carb variations

🔄 Customization Options

Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
Keto-Friendly Option: Use heavy cream and full-fat cheese, reduce broth slightly.
Healthy Swap: Use brown rice and lean ground turkey.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Creamier Texture: Mix in ½ cup cream cheese before baking.

🧊 Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat in microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.

This makes an excellent make-ahead freezer meal for busy professionals and families.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (SEO-Optimized)

1. Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice?

Yes, but reduce liquid slightly and adjust baking time according to package instructions.

2. What is the best cheese for beef and mushroom casserole?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but cheddar adds sharper flavor. Monterey Jack is another great option.

3. How do I prevent rice from becoming mushy?

Use the correct liquid ratio and avoid overbaking. Keep casserole tightly covered while baking.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 5–10 extra minutes to baking time if starting cold.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free.

6. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef first, then cook on low for 3–4 hours until rice is tender.

7. What side dishes go well with this casserole?

Garlic green beans
Fresh garden salad
Roasted broccoli
Dinner rolls

💡 Why This Recipe Performs Well for High CPM Food Niches

This recipe fits into high-value content categories such as:

Budget family meals
High-protein dinner ideas
Easy meal prep recipes
Comfort food casseroles
Freezer-friendly dinners
Ground beef recipes

These niches attract premium ad placements in food blogging, kitchen tools, grocery delivery services, and meal planning platforms.