Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

A Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal that has been a family favorite for generations. This dish combines ground beef, rice, and cheese in a creamy, savory sauce, making it a satisfying choice for dinner. The flavors are rich and comforting, and the cheesy goodness makes this casserole a hit for both kids and adults alike.

This casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal when you want something filling but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. With a few simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, cheese, and a handful of seasonings, you can create a dish that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying.

Not only does it taste great, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, want to sneak in more veggies, or have dietary preferences, there are many ways to adapt this casserole to your tastes. In this recipe, we’ll go over everything from the basic ingredients and instructions to some fun variations that you can try.

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make this cheesy hamburger rice casserole, here are the tools you’ll need to prepare it:

• Large skillet or frying pan: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Casserole dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish or similar size will work well.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients and preventing them from sticking to the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring out the ingredients.
• Aluminum foil or lid: To cover the casserole while baking to keep it moist.
• Grater: To shred your cheese if you’re using block cheese.
• Large spoon: For serving the casserole once it’s cooked.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down the steps to make this easy, cheesy, and delicious casserole!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter to the pan. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

While the beef is cooking, season it with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like, such as paprika or thyme. Drain any excess fat from the beef if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

While the beef and vegetables are cooking, prepare the rice. In a separate pot, cook the rice according to the package instructions. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even instant rice, depending on what you have on hand. However, be aware that using instant rice will change the cooking time of the casserole slightly.

Once the rice is cooked, set it aside.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

To the beef mixture, add the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth. Stir everything together until the soup is well incorporated into the beef and onion. If you’re using sour cream, add it at this stage for extra creaminess.

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix until everything is evenly combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or other spices if needed.

Step 5: Transfer to a Casserole Dish

Grease your casserole dish with a bit of butter or non-stick spray. Pour the beef, rice, and soup mixture into the casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Top the casserole with the shredded cheddar cheese. Feel free to add more cheese for an extra gooey, cheesy topping.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The casserole can be served hot, and it’s even better the next day!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly:

• Use lean meat for a healthier version: If you want to make this casserole a bit lighter, use lean ground beef (or turkey) to reduce the fat content. You can also drain the excess fat after browning the beef.
• Try different types of cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
• Don’t skip the sour cream: If you’re aiming for a richer, creamier casserole, don’t skip the sour cream. It adds a nice tanginess and moisture that elevates the dish.
• Use homemade seasoning blends: If you want to amp up the flavor, try using your own seasoning blends instead of store-bought ones. For example, mix garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning for a unique twist.
• Add veggies for extra nutrition: Adding peas, carrots, or spinach can be an easy way to sneak more vegetables into the casserole, making it a more balanced meal.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about casseroles is how versatile they are. Here are a few fun variations you can try based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

Mexican-Style Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Use taco seasoning in place of thyme and paprika.
• Add diced green chilies or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Top with a mixture of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.
• Garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream and salsa.

Southwestern Casserole

• Use cooked quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for added texture and flavor.
• Stir in black beans or corn for extra fiber and color.
• Top with crushed tortilla chips for some added crunch.

Vegetarian Option

• Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh, lentils, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
• Add more vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, to make the dish heartier.

Italian-Inspired Casserole

• Swap the beef for Italian sausage for a flavorful variation.
• Add diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano for an Italian flair.
• Use mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for the topping.

Low-Carb Version

• Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version of this casserole.
• Use a sugar-free cream soup or make your own using heavy cream and a low-sodium broth.

Common Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues and solutions to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time:

• Casserole is too dry: If your casserole turns out dry, it could be because it was overbaked or not enough liquid was added. Try adding extra beef broth or sour cream to make it creamier next time.
• Rice isn’t fully cooked: If the rice isn’t cooked through, it could be that it wasn’t precooked long enough. Make sure to follow the rice package instructions carefully or use pre-cooked rice.
• Cheese doesn’t melt properly: For a smoother, more melted cheese topping, use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese. The additives in pre-shredded cheese can prevent it from melting evenly.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole can be served as a hearty standalone meal or paired with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:

• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve this casserole with some warm garlic bread to soak up any extra cheesy goodness.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
• Pickled Vegetables: For a tangy contrast, serve the casserole with pickled onions or pickled cucumbers.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ingredients in a cheesy, creamy dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. It’s easy to make, adaptable to various dietary needs, and can be customized to fit your personal taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, this casserole delivers in both flavor and convenience.

Yield: 6

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

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A Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal that has been a family favorite for generations. This dish combines ground beef, rice, and cheese in a creamy, savory sauce, making it a satisfying choice for dinner. The flavors are rich and comforting, and the cheesy goodness makes this casserole a hit for both kids and adults alike.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 1/2 cups beef broth (or water with a bouillon cube)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup, if preferred)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray.
   
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
   Drain excess fat if necessary.
   
3. Add the Aromatics:
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the ground beef. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
   
4. Combine with Rice:
   Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
   Pour in the beef broth (or water and bouillon), the cream of mushroom soup, and the drained diced tomatoes.
   Stir in the sour cream (if using), oregano or Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
   
6. Top with Cheese:
   Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
   
7. Bake:
   Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is fully cooked.
   
8. Serve:
   Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.

Notes

Rice: Make sure to use long-grain white rice, as other types of rice (like brown or jasmine) may need different cooking times and liquid ratios. Also, do not pre-cook the rice, as it will cook in the casserole during baking.

Cheese: Feel free to experiment with the cheese blend! Cheddar works great for flavor, but adding mozzarella or even a little parmesan can give it a different twist.

Ground Beef: If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef. For a different flavor, try adding a bit of sausage or crumbled bacon to the ground meat mixture.

Vegetables: You can sneak in some veggies if you'd like! Stir in frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers along with the other ingredients for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Ideas: This casserole pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.