Why This Casserole is a Must-Try

 Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole (aka "Hubby Addiction")

An Irresistibly Savory, Cheesy Comfort Classic That Keeps Everyone Coming Back for More

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Why This Casserole is a Must-Try

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food casserole that delivers bold flavor, effortless prep, and rave reviews from every bite — stop right here. This Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, lovingly dubbed “Hubby Addiction,” is the kind of dish that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering, soul-warming meal.

Packed with juicy ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, tender rice cooked in savory beef broth, and topped with a golden cheddar crust, this one-pan wonder is a weeknight dinner hero. It’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation — not just for its taste, but for how simple and satisfying it is to prepare.

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Ingredients & Why They Matter

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a role in delivering the perfect balance of richness, texture, and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

✅ Ground Beef (1 pound)

The heart of this casserole. Provides a hearty, savory base and pairs beautifully with the creamy and cheesy components. Opt for lean beef to keep it from getting greasy.

✅ Uncooked White Rice (1 cup)

Absorbs all the flavorful liquid as it bakes, becoming tender and infused with beef broth and seasonings.

✅ Beef Broth (2 cups)

Essential for cooking the rice directly in the casserole. Adds deep umami richness and enhances the meaty flavor profile.

✅ Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)

The creamy binder that holds it all together. Adds silky texture and earthy undertones that complement the beef.

✅ Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup)

Forms the crispy, golden crust on top. Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor and beautiful melt.

✅ Small Onion, Chopped (1)

Provides subtle sweetness and depth, sautéed until soft to blend seamlessly into the dish.

✅ Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)

Adds aromatic warmth without overpowering. Boosts the overall savory profile.

✅ Salt (1 teaspoon)

Enhances and balances the flavors. Adjust to taste, especially if using a salted broth.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these foolproof directions for a casserole that comes out perfect every time:

🔥 1. Preheat & Sauté

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.

🥩 2. Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent sogginess.

🧂 3. Season the Mixture

Stir in the garlic powder and salt. Add a pinch of black pepper if desired. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to let the seasonings bloom.

🍚 4. Combine with Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well to evenly distribute everything.

🧀 5. Assemble in the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Then top with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

🔒 6. Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the rice to cook through.

🔓 7. Uncover & Finish Baking

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp.

⏳ 8. Cool and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set up perfectly.

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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

One-dish simplicity: Everything bakes together in a single pan — less cleanup, more flavor.

Ultimate comfort food: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying in every bite.

Family-friendly: Kid-approved and picky-eater-safe.

Make-ahead magic: Perfect for prepping ahead and baking when you’re ready.

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Pro Tips for Casserole Success

Use long grain white rice for best texture — short grain or instant rice may turn mushy.

Shred your own cheese for better melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents.

Customize it: Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mix for extra nutrition and flavor.

Double the batch and freeze half for a future meal. This casserole reheats beautifully!

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Serving Suggestions

To round out the meal, pair your Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with:

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Steamed broccoli or roasted carrots for a pop of color and nutrients.

A glass of iced tea or red wine for a comforting dinner vibe.

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Final Thoughts: A Crowd-Pleasing Casserole You’ll Make Again and Again

This hubby-approved casserole is more than just a weeknight dinner — it’s the kind of dish that gets requests, seconds, and rave reviews every time it hits the table. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and maximum flavor, the Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a go-to you’ll crave.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Make it once, and you’ll understand why we call it “Hubby Addiction.”

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💬 Hungry for more? Save this recipe, share it with friends, and let us know in the comments how it turned out. Happy

 cooking!

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