Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

There’s Nothing Like a Cozy Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia, making it the perfect choice for family dinners and cozy evenings. Imagine juicy ground beef mingled with creamy cheese and savory rice, all baked to bubbly perfection. I first discovered this recipe one chilly evening when I craved something both satisfying and uncomplicated. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy weeknights when I want to whip up something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Reasons You’ll Love Making It

What makes this casserole truly special is its combination of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly. It’s not just a meal; it’s a one-dish wonder that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or hosting family friends, you’ll find that this dish is quick, budget-friendly, and absolutely kid-approved. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

"This casserole has become a family favorite! It’s easy to make, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!" – Happy Home Chef

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to dive into the deliciousness? This casserole comes together in just a few simple steps that will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly. You’ll be layering flavors while keeping the effort minimal. Perfect for cookers of any skill level!

What You’ll Need

Prepare to gather these essential ingredients for your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Feel free to customize this list with your favorite types of cheeses or even swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version!

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned, draining any excess fat.
3. Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Transfer this flavorful mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Best Way to Serve

To make the most out of your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, serve it hot right out of the oven. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some lightly steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For those who love a little crunch, a side of garlic bread or tortilla chips can offer a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole.

Keeping Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Fresh Longer

If you have any leftovers (which may be unlikely, given how delicious this dish is!), you’ll want to store them properly. Allow the casserole to cool entirely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label it with the date for your convenience.

Expert Advice

To elevate your casserole, consider browning the beef with a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor. If you’re looking to save time, using pre-cooked rice can cut your prep time in half. Also, don’t skip the step of covering the dish with foil during the initial baking – it traps steam and ensures your rice cooks perfectly!

Creative Twists

Looking for ways to mix things up? Try adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas to your casserole for a nutritional boost and added flavor. You can also switch up your cheese selection! Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can give your casserole a different taste. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, consider incorporating spices like cumin or chili powder for a zesty kick.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prep and cook this casserole?

Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking takes roughly 35-40 minutes, making this the perfect weeknight meal option.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Typically, brown rice requires about 45 minutes to cook.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat your casserole in the oven at 350°F until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Now that you have all the details to create this comfort food classic, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious dinner that everyone will love! Enjoy!

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

---

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Paleo

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A cozy and comforting casserole featuring ground beef, creamy cheese, and savory rice, perfect for family dinners.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned, draining any excess fat.
3. Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider browning the beef with Worcestershire sauce. You can use pre-cooked rice to cut down on prep time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, beef casserole