A Comforting Classic Your Whole Family Will Love
There’s something magical about a hearty, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven. The Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—packed with savory beef, aromatic garlic and onions, creamy mushroom soup, tender rice, and a golden, bubbly cheddar cheese topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this casserole is an approachable recipe that delivers big on flavor without requiring advanced skills or a long list of ingredients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be tailored to your preferences or whatever you have on hand in your pantry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will rave about the cheesy, savory goodness.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these items in your kitchen.
- One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup with all the components—protein, carbs, and flavor—in one pan.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it ahead of time and bake when ready, making it ideal for busy days.
Let’s dive into the recipe and tips to make this comforting dish a staple in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving a breeze.
2. Build the Flavor Base
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. This creates a flavorful base for the casserole. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming oily.
3. Combine Ingredients
Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The broth and soup will meld with the beef and rice, creating a creamy, savory filling.
4. Transfer and Bake
Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes. The foil helps retain moisture, ensuring the rice cooks perfectly.
5. Add the Cheesy Finish
After 50 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set. This makes it easier to serve and enhances the flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil
Tips, Tricks, and Variations
- Customize the Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, frozen peas, or sliced mushrooms for extra nutrients and color.
- Switch the Protein: Ground turkey or chicken work just as well as beef. For a vegetarian version, try crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Swap the Soup: Cream of chicken or celery soup can be used in place of mushroom soup if desired.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture for some heat.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge or freezer:
- Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Food and Drink Pairings
This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh, crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. For drinks, a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a refreshing glass of iced tea complements the flavors beautifully. For kids, a cold glass of milk is always a classic choice.
FAQs
Can I use instant rice?
Yes! If using instant rice, adjust the cooking time accordingly, as it requires less time to cook.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from the fridge.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth are excellent substitutes. You can also use water with a bouillon cube for added flavor.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Ensure you use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that your beef broth is gluten-free as well.
Call to Action
We hope you enjoy this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole as much as we do! It’s a timeless recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. If you loved this dish, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, tips, and inspiration. Let us know in the comments how your casserole turned out or share your own creative twists!
Happy cooking!