Big Family Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole | Freezer Meals for Large Families
Fill your family with this cheesy, meaty dish that you can easily prepare. The Big Family Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole taste good and can get put in the freezer, allowing you to prepare it in advance if you want to.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion diced
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons beef bullion granules
- 4 cups milk
- 1 8 ounce package cream cheese
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 3 cups raw white rice cooked according to package directions about 6 cups cooked
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare two 9x13 casserole dishes with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large (12 inch) skillet over medium-low heat, brown the ground beef with the onions, crumbling the beef as it cooks. Drain the beef well.
- As the beef drains, add the butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in the flour and seasonings, cooking for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add in the milk, whisking until thick and bubbly.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the cream cheese and half of the cheddar cheese until melted.
- In a 30 quart bowl, combine the rice, beef, and cheese sauce. Divide the mixture between the prepared casserole dishes. Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake the casseroles for 45 to 50 minutes or until the edges are bubbling.
To make ahead:
- Prepare casseroles as directed.
- Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 6 months.
- Allow to thawe in the refrigerator overnight prior to baking.
- Uncover and proceed according to directions.