Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that always brings back fond memories of family dinners. This recipe combines the satisfying flavors of ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and, of course, melted cheddar cheese, making it a favorite among both adults and kids alike. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings when you need something delicious yet hassle-free.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole stands out for multiple reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly budget-friendly—a win for any home cook. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal that fills bellies and warms hearts. It’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. Plus, kids adore it! The gooey cheese and savory beef make it hard for anyone to resist. Whether you’re serving it up on a busy Tuesday or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole never fails to impress.
“This casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! My family loves it, and it’s so easy to make. We have it every couple of weeks!” – Happy Home Cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by browning the beef with onions and garlic for an aromatic base. Then, you’ll stir in the uncooked rice along with beef broth and cream of mushroom soup to create a creamy mixture. After a brief simmer, you’ll transfer everything to a baking dish and let it bake until everything is cooked through. Finally, you’ll sprinkle on the cheese and allow it to melt, creating an irresistible topping that pulls the whole dish together.
What You’ll Need
To make this delightful casserole, gather the following items:
- 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)
You can also consider using ground turkey or chicken as a lighter option, and for a vegetarian twist, try substituting beans for the beef.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat.
- 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 the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When serving Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, consider presenting it in individual bowls or on plates, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole. You could also serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will savor.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. Always label with the date, and it should last for 2-3 months in the freezer. When reheating, make sure it’s heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Extra Advice
To ensure your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:
- Browning the beef well adds depth of flavor, so don’t rush that step.
- If you prefer a bit more spice, add in some diced jalapeños or chili powder.
- For an extra cheesy finish, mix some cheese into the rice mixture before baking.
Creative Twists
There are many ways to put your own spin on this recipe! Try adding in some sautéed bell peppers for added flavor and texture. You could also swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a kick. For a healthier alternative, substitute brown rice for white, but remember that cooking times may vary.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
The total time for preparation and cooking is about 1 hour. It’s a quick process that’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
Can I substitute the beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option can replace the beef without compromising flavor.
Is this dish good for freezing?
Yes, Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely and store in appropriate containers for best results.
PrintCheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
A comforting and hearty dish combining ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat.
- 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 the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, try substituting beans for the beef.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
