If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe is just what you need. It masterfully combines juicy, seasoned meatballs with tender, flavorful rice, all topped with a gooey blanket of melted cheeses. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of textures and flavors, from the savory meat to the creamy mushroom-infused rice, making it a true crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the seasoned ground beef that forms tender meatballs to the creamy mushroom soup and rich cheeses that elevate the dish’s overall comfort factor.
- 1 lb ground beef: The heart of the dish, providing juicy, savory meatballs.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Keeps the meatballs tender and perfectly shaped.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold meatballs together without falling apart.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds subtle aromatic depth to the meatballs.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances savory flavor with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning every component.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For browning meatballs to lock in amazing flavors.
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice: The base that absorbs all the delicious juices.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Brings creaminess and umami to the casserole.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and layers of savory broth flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic cheesy stretch.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and rich color contrasts.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme: Lends a subtle earthy note to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Offers mild smokiness and a touch of warmth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the casserole with fresh, vibrant color as a garnish.
How to Make Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Start by mixing the ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This combination creates meatballs that are flavorful yet tender. Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides. This step seals in juices and develops a delicious crust. Don’t worry if the meatballs aren’t fully cooked here; they will finish cooking in the oven.
Step 3: Combine the Rice Mixture
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and stir together the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, dried thyme, and paprika. This flavorful base ensures the rice absorbs all the savory goodness as it bakes.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Place the browned meatballs on top of the rice mixture in the dish. Cover the casserole with foil to keep moisture in, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and generously sprinkle both shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and meatballs.
How to Serve Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish here, but a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few chilli flakes can add a delightful twist. Consider a dollop of sour cream or a side of tangy pickles to offset the richness and add layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty much a one-dish meal, but if you want to add sides, light and crisp salads work wonders. Think a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed with garlic and olive oil to keep things bright and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins right from the oven, ensuring everyone gets a perfectly bubbly, cheesy top. You can also turn leftovers into delicious stuffed peppers by packing the casserole into halved bell peppers and baking until warm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making next-day reheating even better.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking or after cooking. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for up to 2 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. This method preserves the moisture and keeps the cheese wonderfully melty. Microwaving works in a pinch but can sometimes make the rice a bit dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork work well in this casserole and can bring a different flavor profile while keeping it just as delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the regular ones, and use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to keep all the flavors intact without gluten.
Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Definitely. You can mix and shape the meatballs a day in advance and keep them refrigerated, making the cooking process even quicker when you’re ready to assemble the casserole.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a mushroom fan, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup works perfectly, or you can make a homemade white sauce for a fresh twist.
How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?
The rice should be tender after baking covered for 45 minutes. If it feels a little firm, give it an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven. The liquid should be absorbed and the rice fluffy.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole Recipe is a guaranteed winner for any dinner table. It’s full of comforting flavors, easy to prepare, and perfect for sharing with the people you love. So go ahead, give it a whirl—you’re in for a delicious, cheesy, meaty treat that will quickly become a family favorite!
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, one-dish meal featuring flavorful browned meatballs nestled in a creamy mushroom soup and chicken broth-infused rice base, topped with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, onion, thyme, and paprika, this baked casserole is an easy-to-make family favorite that’s hearty and satisfying.
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
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated. Shape the mixture into small, uniform meatballs for even cooking.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage; just achieve a good sear for flavor and color.
- Assemble Casserole Base: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In the dish, combine the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, dried thyme, and paprika. Stir well to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Add Meatballs: Arrange the browned meatballs on top of the rice mixture, spacing them evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through and flavors to meld while the meatballs finish cooking.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil carefully. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh contrast. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty, cheesy meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the soup is gluten-free.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add an extra 1/4 cup of chicken broth.
- Feel free to add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the rice mixture for added nutrition.
- Make sure to cover the casserole while baking to allow the rice to cook properly and retain moisture.
