If you’re searching for a comforting, delicious dish the whole family will adore, look no further than this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. In my experience, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving a warm, cheesy meal that hits the spot. It strikes the perfect balance of savory beef, creamy mushroom soup, and gooey melted cheese, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. This recipe embodies everything we love about comfort food—it’s quick to prepare and even easier to devour!
Why make this recipe
When it comes to family favorites, this casserole shines brightly. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to add it to your meal rotation:
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Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those hectic nights when you need a satisfying meal fast.
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Budget-Friendly: With simple, accessible ingredients like ground beef and rice, this casserole won’t break the bank.
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Kid-Approved: Kids love the cheesy goodness, and the combination of flavors will keep even the pickiest eaters coming back for more.
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Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for planned leftovers or meal prepping.
"This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a family favorite! It’s easy to make and disappears quickly at dinner. My kids ask for it all the time!" – A Happy Home Cook
How to make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Creating this dish is a straightforward and rewarding process. Below is an overview of how it all comes together:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef with onions and garlic until browned.
- Mix in rice, beef broth, and soup, then season and let simmer.
- Transfer to a baking dish, cover, and bake.
- Add cheese, then bake again until melted and bubbly.
What you’ll need
Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious 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)
Note: For those looking for substitutes, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent alternatives for the beef, and you might try using brown rice for a whole grain twist.
Step-by-step instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat. Ensure the beef is browned, draining any excessive fat afterward.
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Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Season this mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
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Transfer the entire mixture to your prepped baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Finally, garnish with the chopped parsley before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This casserole is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- Pair it with a side salad for a fresh crunch to balance out the creaminess.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Experiment with toppings like sliced jalapeños or crushed tortilla chips for extra texture.
Storage and reheating tips
Proper storage is key to enjoying leftovers safely:
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. It should last up to 3-4 days.
- If you prefer to freeze it, cool the casserole completely first, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:
- For extra flavor, drain the beef fat completely; this prevents the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Make sure to keep an eye on the cheese during the last minutes of baking to avoid burning.
Creative twists
Feel free to make this dish your own with these variations:
- Swap out the ground beef for cooked chicken or a vegetarian protein.
- Try adding different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick.
- For a zesty twist, incorporate diced tomatoes or green chiles into the mix.
Common questions
What is the cooking time for this casserole?
The entire baking process takes around 35-40 minutes, which includes both covered and uncovered baking.
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can substitute long-grain rice with brown rice, though it will increase the cooking time.
Is this dish freezable?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before storing in the freezer.
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked Can substitute with brown rice.
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.75 oz)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded For a twist, try different cheeses.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excessive fat.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and return to the oven to bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
