Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Table of Contents

Oh, dear friends, let me take you back to one of the fondest culinary memories tucked away in my cozy kitchen. The first time I stumbled upon Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole was during a chilly autumn evening. The clouds were heavy with rain, and the wind howled at my window. I was craving something comforting—a dish that would wrap me in warmth and nostalgia, much like a knitted blanket on a crisp day.

I remember the sizzle of the ground beef mingling with the sweetness of onion and the fragrant allure of garlic. As I combined the tangy cream of mushroom soup with hearty beef broth, the aroma filled my kitchen like an inviting hug. And when I pulled that bubbling, cheesy casserole out of the oven, golden melted cheddar gleaming atop perfectly cooked rice, I knew I had discovered a recipe that would soon become a staple in my home—one I cherish not just for its deliciousness, but for the memories it creates around the dinner table.

Trust me, dear readers, you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe too! The taste is a warm embrace, the textures are a delightful dance, and the ease of preparation makes it a must-have for your busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity at Its Best: With just a few easy steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one dish means less cleanup, which is always a plus!
• Comfort Food Vibes: This dish wraps you in warmth with every cheesy, meaty bite.
• Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a dish that pleases even the fussiest of eaters—great for family dinners or gatherings!
• Customizable: You can swap ingredients to make it your own, keeping every family member happy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef: For that savory base! You can use lean or regular based on your preference.
• 1 onion, chopped: Sweet and aromatic, it adds depth to our cheesy embrace.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Garlic always enhances the dish with a punch of flavor.
• 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked: This will soak up all the delicious juices and offer a satisfying texture.
• 2 cups beef broth: A rich broth keeps everything juicy and flavorful—homemade or store-bought works!
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: This adds creaminess and earthy notes that harmonize so beautifully.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: The star of the show! Melty and gooey, it’s destined to create that divine cheesy topping.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors—be sure to taste!
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little bit of spice to balance the richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: This adds a subtle smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Bursting with freshness, it’s the jewel on top!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation of a cozy casserole baking is half the joy!

Prepare the Baking Dish

Grab your trusty 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a light grease with cooking spray or a dab of butter to ensure our casserole slides right out when it’s time to serve.

Cook the Meat Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, it’s time for the sizzle! Add your ground beef, onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned—oh, the glorious smell of browning meat and sautéing onions is pure comfort. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!

Combine Ingredients

Now stir in your uncooked rice, beef broth, and creamy mushroom soup, creating a luscious mixture. Sprinkle in your salt, pepper, and paprika to give life to those flavors! Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Your kitchen should now smell like a delightful dinner invitation.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Carefully transfer this heavenly mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly—it’s all about that deliciousness!

Bake Covered

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for 25 minutes. Can you smell that? Cozy goodness is in the air!

Cheese It Up!

After 25 minutes, it’s time to unveil the magic! Remove the foil and sprinkle that shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Pop it back in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Cue the ooey-gooey goodness!

Garnish and Serve

Once it’s beautifully melted and golden, take it out and garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it warm and watch the smiles light up the room.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Drain: Drain excess fat from the beef to keep the dish from being greasy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the flavor so much—totally worth it!
• Layer the Cheese: For an extra cheesy top, feel free to add more cheese than suggested.
• Controlled Simmering: Stirring occasionally during simmering can help ensure everything cooks evenly.

Flavor Variations

• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the ground beef for plant-based beef alternatives or a medley of your favorite sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Lovers Delight: Try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this cheesy delight with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the rich cheese. A warm loaf of crusty bread is also perfect for sopping up those gooey cheesy bits. And for drinks? A light lager or fresh lemonade complements the meal beautifully!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can absolutely prep this dish in advance! Combine all the ingredients and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

For storage, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It should be good in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Leftovers

Get creative! Turn leftover Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole into a stuffing for bell peppers or tacos. Just scoop some of that deliciousness into a crunchy taco shell, and wow, what a treat!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months! Just make sure to let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before sealing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat your casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—this keeps it nice and crispy. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, you can, but keep in mind that brown rice usually requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and make sure your cream of mushroom soup is dairy-free too.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes! This casserole freezes very well. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and properly seal it.

How can I increase the veggie content?
Feel free to toss in some frozen mixed veggies or sautéed kale or spinach—more greens, more joy!

Final Thoughts

Dear friends, there you have it—my cherished Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, a dish that warms hearts and fills bellies! As you gather around the table with loved ones, let this meal remind you of the simple joys of cooking and the love shared over good food. May it bring colorful, cozy moments into your kitchen, just like it does in mine. Happy cooking, and as always, keep those vibes cooking!

Much love,
Chef Emily