If you’re craving something comforting, cozy, and downright irresistible, this Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe is just the ticket. Picture tender, juicy meatballs nestled in a creamy, savory rice base, all topped with bubbling, golden cheese that pulls apart in gooey strands with every bite. It’s a perfect harmony of hearty flavors and satisfying textures that comes together effortlessly, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for any occasion. Once you try this dish, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s building flavor, texture, or that comforting creaminess that makes this casserole so memorable.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base for tender meatballs packed with flavor.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and give them a nice, tender texture.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder to keep the meatballs intact while baking.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm aromatics boost without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: A subtle layer of savory depth that complements the beef.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For browning the meatballs to a beautiful crust before baking.
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice: The base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Creamy and savory, it’s the secret behind the casserole’s luscious texture.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Helps cook the rice and infuse the whole dish with rich flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey goodness, adding mild creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers a sharp, tangy contrast that makes the cheese topping irresistible.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme: Provides a hint of herbal fragrance to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A pop of fresh color and a light, herbal finish.
How to Make Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Shape the Meatballs
Start by combining your ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly not only seasons the meat perfectly, but also ensures your meatballs hold together nicely. Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs—smaller sizes allow for even cooking and make each forkful just the right amount of deliciousness.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat up the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then carefully add your meatballs. Browning them on all sides creates a wonderful crust and locks in juices, which means rich flavor in every bite. Don’t worry about cooking them through completely; they’ll finish cooking in the oven and stay extra tender this way.
Step 3: Assemble the Base in Your Baking Dish
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, mix your uncooked rice with the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, dried thyme, and paprika. This combination provides a creamy, savory foundation that will absorb all those wonderful meatball flavors during baking. The thyme and paprika bring that subtle herbal and smoky complexity that makes this casserole extra special.
Step 4: Layer the Meatballs on Top
Arrange the browned meatballs evenly over the rice mixture. This layering allows the meatballs to steam gently and infuse the rice beneath with their juices, creating a dish that’s cohesive and full of flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover your baking dish tightly with foil to trap the moisture and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. The rice will cook perfectly in the steaming environment, soaking up the broth and cream soup as the meatballs finish cooking.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown. This final step creates that irresistible cheesy crust that makes the casserole downright addictive.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright, fresh contrast. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes—it’s going to be hot and gooey, so this little rest helps everything set up just right for serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is classic, but feel free to get creative. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or add a few thinly sliced green onions for extra color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream on the side can add a tangy creaminess that balances the rich casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty, so lighter, crisp sides work best to complement it. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or green beans make perfect companions. Roasted carrots or a fresh tomato salad can also add a lovely brightness to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your cheesy meatballs and rice casserole directly from the baking dish for that warm, homey vibe. For a fancier touch, plate individual portions topped with a sprig of fresh herb and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a tangy pesto. It’s a versatile dish that works beautifully for casual family dinners or special gatherings alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes even better warmed through, as the flavors meld together overnight. Just cover it tightly to keep the cheese from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this recipe in advance, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it; wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a bit more time if needed since it will be cold going into the oven.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings on medium power, but be sure to cover the dish to keep moisture locked in for that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative and will still work well in this Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking time since leaner meats may cook a bit faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Is it necessary to brown the meatballs before baking?
Browning the meatballs adds essential flavor and texture, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just shred the meatballs directly into the casserole. The dish will still be tasty but with a milder meat flavor and less crispy texture on the meatballs.
Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup with another type?
Yes, you can swap in cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup based on your flavor preferences. Each will bring a slightly different taste, but the creaminess and texture will still be fabulous.
What type of rice works best in this recipe?
Long grain white rice is preferred because it cooks evenly and produces a light, fluffy texture. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice, as it may become mushy during the long baking time.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure to pick a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. There are several good brands available, or you can make your own gluten-free roux-based soup. This way, you can enjoy the Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe without any worry.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—flavorful, comforting, and so easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, feeding a crowd, or just treating yourself when you want something soulful and satisfying. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites!
Print
Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender homemade meatballs simmered atop a creamy rice base and baked to perfection with a melty cheese topping. Easy to prepare, it combines savory flavors of seasoned beef, creamy mushroom soup, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, making it a perfect family-friendly dinner option.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Casserole
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Make the meatball mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, then shape into small, bite-sized meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them evenly on all sides. Note that they do not need to be fully cooked at this stage since they will finish cooking in the oven.
- Prepare the rice base: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In the dish, stir together the uncooked white rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, dried thyme, and paprika until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Arrange the browned meatballs evenly on top of the rice mixture, ensuring they are nestled into the base.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish securely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through and absorb the flavors.
- Add the cheese topping: Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the meatballs and rice. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest briefly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
- For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- To add extra veggies, incorporate diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the rice mixture before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
- Leftovers refrigerate well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
