Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-pan dish that brings together savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and lots of gooey cheese. This simple and satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please the whole family. With minimal prep and pantry staples, it’s a great go-to recipe when you need something hearty and delicious. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Keto and Low-Carb Versions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or oven-safe pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Season and Combine: Stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Add the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes (with their juice), rice, and beef broth. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Bake: If using an oven-safe skillet, cover it with a lid or foil. If not, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and cover. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Remove the cover, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Rice Type: This recipe works best with long-grain white rice. If using brown rice, you may need to increase the cooking time and add more broth.
- Cream of Mushroom Substitute: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
- Cooking Tip: Stir the mixture halfway through baking to ensure even cooking of the rice.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add chopped bell peppers, corn, or peas to the casserole before baking for extra vegetables.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use diced tomatoes with green chilies for a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Bacon Casserole: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon with the ground beef for added smoky flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
To make a keto-friendly and low-carb version of this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole:
- Rice Substitute: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice. Reduce the cooking time accordingly, as cauliflower rice cooks much faster.
- Cream of Mushroom Substitute: Use a homemade cream sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and mushrooms to keep it low in carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you want a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste.
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a hungry family. With savory beef, tender rice, and melty cheese, this comforting casserole is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, and enjoy the simplicity of this one-pan wonder. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal tonight!
Happy Cooking!