Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the irresistible flavors of beef, cheese, and rice, then the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the perfect dish to satisfy your appetite. This casserole balances rich, savory notes from ground beef and creamy mushroom soup with the cheesy goodness that melts beautifully atop a fluffy bed of tender rice. It’s one of those cozy meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and it’s surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients that come together to create a truly unforgettable dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: the ground beef adds hearty protein and flavor, the rice provides a comforting base with a tender bite, and the cheddar cheese brings that luscious gooey texture and sharp taste that makes every bite addictive.

• 1 lb ground beef: Use fresh beef with a moderate fat content for juiciness and flavor.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses the dish with a subtle aromatic punch.
• 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked: Perfect for absorbing flavors without becoming mushy.
• 2 cups beef broth: Enriches the rice with savory richness and moisture.
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy texture that ties the casserole together.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Delivers melt-in-your-mouth cheesiness that crowns the dish.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the creamy components.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smoky warmth and lovely color.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Gives a fresh herbal brightness and vibrant look.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and the edges crisp up just right.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently until the beef is fully browned and the onion softens to a translucent, fragrant state. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.

Step 3: Combine Rice, Broth, Soup, and Seasonings

To this skillet, stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Then season with salt, black pepper, and paprika for that perfect depth of flavor and fantastic color. Bring the mixture to a boil to get those rice grains starting to soften and soak up all the richness.

Step 4: Simmer Before Baking

Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes. This helps the rice absorb some of the broth and soup flavors, ensuring the casserole bakes up tender rather than dry or crunchy in spots.

Step 5: Transfer and Bake Covered

Pour the sizzling mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven for 25 minutes. The foil traps steam, allowing the rice to cook fully and absorb all those luscious flavors.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Carefully remove the foil after 25 minutes, then sprinkle your shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown in spots. This is the moment when the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole becomes truly irresistible.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the casserole for a bright pop of color and fresh herbal contrast that elevates the entire dish.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is the classic, adding both flavor and a vibrant green contrast. You can also try a light dusting of smoked paprika or even some sliced green onions to introduce extra texture and aroma.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing side salad studded with cucumbers and tomatoes to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or even a tangy coleslaw are fantastic choices to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties. You could also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a few pickled jalapeños for an unexpected kick, adding an exciting twist to a family favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more enjoyable.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway, until heated evenly and the cheese is melty again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for its sharp and melty qualities, you can try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda to mix things up.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a tasty vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving to save time.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain rice is preferred because it cooks up fluffy and separate, but white jasmine or basmati rice can work as well for a fragrant touch.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

For sure! Diced bell peppers, peas, or corn make wonderful additions to enhance flavor, color, and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the warm comfort of a homemade Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole when you want a filling, flavorful meal that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you have a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to pull together any night of the week. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become your go-to for cozy dinners full of cheesy, meaty goodness.

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