Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and lots of gooey cheese. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you need a simple, satisfying dinner. This casserole is easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a new favorite. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Beef Mixture
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until softened.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine and Bake
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, and uncooked rice. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil and stir the mixture. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use a combination of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor.
- Rice Cooking Tip: Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil to ensure that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the liquid.
- Vegetable Additions: Add extra veggies like chopped zucchini or mushrooms for a more substantial casserole.
Variations
- Mexican-Inspired Bake: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin for a Tex-Mex twist. Substitute the cheddar with pepper jack cheese.
- Chicken and Rice Bake: Substitute the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken and use chicken broth instead of beef broth.
- Creamy Bake: Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking for an extra creamy casserole.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls for a comforting meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and add extra broth, as brown rice takes longer to cook. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, checking for tenderness.
How Do I Make It Spicier?
To add some heat, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family. With seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and lots of melted cheese, this casserole is both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a simple dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Gather your ingredients, bake, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Happy Cooking!
