Looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare? This Quick and Tasty Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is just what you need! Simple to make and packed with savory goodness, this dish combines ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender rice into one satisfying casserole that the whole family will enjoy. It’s the ultimate comfort food, baked to perfection in a single dish.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
This casserole is your go-to solution for busy weeknight dinners. It’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. The ingredients are straightforward and budget-friendly, yet the dish doesn’t skimp on flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily adapt it to fit your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
In addition to its convenience, this dish is also nutritious. Ground beef provides a rich source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, while the rice offers satisfying carbohydrates. The addition of vegetables adds fiber and essential vitamins, making this a well-rounded, delicious meal.
What You’ll Need: Preparation & Tools
Tools:
- Large skillet (for browning the beef)
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar size)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for mixing)
- Cheese grater (if grating cheese yourself)
- Aluminum foil (for covering during baking)
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Having everything ready before you begin will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Preparation Tips
- Choose the Right Rice: For the best texture, use long-grain white or brown rice. If using instant rice, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Make sure the ground beef is fully cooked and browned to enhance flavor and ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Season as You Go: Season the beef while cooking, and taste the mixture before baking to ensure the flavors are just right.
- Cover the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil during baking to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly or the casserole from drying out. Uncover it in the last few minutes to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
Recipe: Quick and Tasty Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Servings:
6-8
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
45 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onions, uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, drained diced tomatoes, and frozen peas and carrots if using. Stir until well mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rice is fully cooked.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop into individual portions and enjoy!
Side Dish Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with lighter side dishes that complement its richness:
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the casserole's richness.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make a great, nutritious side.
- Garlic Bread: For carb lovers, garlic bread adds a delicious crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
Additional Tips, Notes, Storing, and Serving
Tips:
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to increase the amount of vegetables or add others like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Notes:
- Using Brown Rice: If using brown rice, increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes as it takes longer to cook.
- Substitute Cream Soup: You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different flavor.
Storing:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After baking, cool completely, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving:
- Reheating: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
- Undercooked Rice: If the rice isn’t fully cooked, cover the dish with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until tender.
- Casserole Too Dry: Add more broth or water before baking to ensure the rice absorbs enough liquid.
- Cheese Overcooked: If the cheese starts to brown too much, cover the dish with foil during the last part of baking.
- Lack of Flavor: Season the beef and the rice mixture well before baking to avoid blandness.
- Rice Clumping: Stir the mixture well before adding it to the baking dish to ensure even distribution of liquid.
FAQs
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a lighter option.
- Can I make this casserole in advance? Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.
- Can I add more cheese? If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese on top or mix some into the casserole.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- How can I make this casserole gluten-free? Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all other ingredients, like broth, are also gluten-free.