This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a warm and filling dish that’s super easy to make! Ground beef meets soft rice and creamy cheese for a cozy meal that everyone will love.
It’s like a big hug in a dish! I usually whip this up when I want something quick yet satisfying. Plus, who can resist all that cheesy goodness? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef to keep it a bit healthier. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well here too!
Onion: Chopped onion adds great flavor. You can swap it with shallots or scallions if you don’t have an onion. For a milder taste, try using green onions.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is a classic, but you can use brown rice for added nutrition. Just remember to increase the cooking time and use more liquid!
Beef Broth: I love using beef broth for richer flavor. Chicken broth or vegetable broth can substitute if you’re out of beef broth.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives a creamy texture! If you need a substitute, any cream soup will do, like cream of chicken or even a homemade Alfredo sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar is a favorite for its bold flavor, feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Rice Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the rice just right can be tricky, but it’s all about managing the liquid and cooking time. Here’s how to do it:
- Use the right ratio of liquid to rice; for long-grain white rice, the rule is 2 cups of liquid for every cup of rice.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil while baking. This helps keep the steam in and cooks the rice evenly.
- Check at the 55-minute mark for tenderness. If it’s still a bit firm, cover and give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Following this technique ensures your rice turns out fluffy and complements the other ingredients perfectly!
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery soup)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then about 1 hour to bake. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting meal in a little over an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly when you’re ready to pop it in!
2. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Stir it regularly until the beef is browned and the onion is soft—this should take about 5-7 minutes. If you see excess grease, drain it off so your casserole isn’t too oily!
3. Mix the Rice and Soup Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine your uncooked rice, 2 cups of beef broth (or water), the can of cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed!
4. Combine Everything:
Now add the cooked ground beef and onions to the rice mixture. If you’re using frozen mixed vegetables, stir those in too! This adds a lovely color and extra nutrition.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour all of this delicious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly, then cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This keeps the moisture in while it bakes!
6. Bake It Up:
Put the covered casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 55-60 minutes. You’ll want the rice to be tender and most of the liquid should be absorbed.
7. Add the Cheese:
After baking, carefully remove the foil. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This is where the magic happens!
8. Final Bake:
Pop the casserole back in the oven uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly—this is the best part!
9. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let your casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set a little, making it easier to scoop out those cheesy, hearty portions!
Now it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy this comforting Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
FAQ for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to cook, so check for tenderness before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed to rehydrate the rice.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your veggie additions. Bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini would be great options. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly alongside the rest of the casserole.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Assemble the dish, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the baking instructions.