Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole: 10 Min Prep

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Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole has always been my go-to for a truly satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. I remember my mom making this for us on chilly evenings; the aroma of savory beef, tender rice, and bubbling cheddar cheese filling our home was pure magic. This simple yet delicious Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe is incredibly easy to put together, making it perfect for any night of the week. Get ready for a dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• The incredible taste: It’s a savory, cheesy, and comforting flavor explosion that everyone adores.
• Super speedy prep: You can whip up this Easy Cheesy Hamburger Rice in just about 10 minutes.
• Budget-friendly goodness: Uses common pantry staples and ground beef, making it easy on your wallet.
• Family-approved: This hearty dish is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, perfect for a family meal.
• Minimal cleanup: It’s a fantastic one-pan wonder, meaning less washing up after dinner.
• Versatile comfort food: This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Rice adapts easily with add-ins like veggies or different cheeses.
• A truly satisfying meal: Packed with protein and carbs, it’s a filling and delicious way to end your day.

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Ingredients

Gathering the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ingredients is straightforward, and I love that most of them are pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

• 1 lb ground beef – I prefer an 80/20 or 90/10 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor.
• 1 onion, chopped – about 1 cup; a yellow or white onion works perfectly.
• 1 garlic clove, minced – for that essential aromatic punch.
• 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked – make sure it’s uncooked; it will cook in the broth.
• 2 cups beef broth – this is key for cooking the rice and adding savory depth.
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup – this is the magic binder that makes it creamy and rich.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp or mild, your choice! This is what makes it delightfully cheesy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a little kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – adds a hint of color and mild flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – for a fresh garnish that brightens everything up.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Whipping up this crowd-pleasing casserole is surprisingly simple, even on a busy weeknight. The combination of savory ground beef, tender rice, and creamy soup makes these Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole instructions a joy to follow. Get ready for a dish that smells as amazing as it tastes!

1. Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks.
2. Step 2: Grab a large skillet and cook the 1 lb ground beef, the chopped 1 onion, and the minced 1 garlic clove over medium heat. Keep stirring until the beef is beautifully browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat – this is a key step for a cleaner flavor.
3. Step 3: Now for the magic! Stir the uncooked 1 cup long-grain rice, the savory 2 cups beef broth, and the creamy 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup right into the skillet with the beef mixture. Season everything with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Bring this glorious concoction to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes. This starts the rice cooking process.
4. Step 4: Carefully transfer the entire mixture from the skillet into your prepared baking dish. This is where the casserole really starts to take shape. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Step 5: After 25 minutes, it’s time for the grand finale! Remove the aluminum foil. Sprinkle the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered this time, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, with a few golden-brown spots. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!
6. Step 6: Once it’s perfectly cheesy, remove the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole from the oven. Let it rest for just a few minutes before garnishing with the chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley. These Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole instructions ensure a delicious and easy meal every time.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

I’ve made this dish countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it. Follow these for a truly standout Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe that your family will rave about.

• Always drain the grease from the ground beef thoroughly. A greasy casserole just isn’t as pleasant.
• Don’t overcook the rice before baking; it will continue to cook in the oven and can become mushy if you’re not careful.
• Feel free to add a cup of frozen peas or corn during the last 10 minutes of baking for some added color and nutrition.
• For an extra cheesy kick, try mixing half cheddar and half Monterey Jack cheese.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?

The real secret to a perfect Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is using the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth correctly to cook the rice. This combination creates a creamy, flavorful base that ensures tender rice every time, making it the Best Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. For more tips on cooking rice, you can check out Serious Eats’ guide.

Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, uncooked, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the plastic wrap and follow the original baking instructions, adding about 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold. For more make-ahead meal prep tips, visit Budget Bytes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?

The biggest mistake people make is not draining the fat from the ground beef, which can make the casserole greasy. Another common pitfall is overcooking the rice initially; it should still have a slight bite before going into the oven. Also, make sure the rice is evenly distributed in the baking dish for consistent cooking. You can find more general cooking advice on Food Network.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to round out the meal. For a classic Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole dinner, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect to cut through the richness.

Another great option is some steamed broccoli or green beans. The freshness of the vegetables really complements the savory, cheesy goodness of the casserole. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, a side of garlic bread is always a welcome addition – who can resist that combination?

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

When you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal, this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole really hits the spot. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving, so you know what you’re enjoying:

• Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approx. 291g)
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more detailed nutritional information, you can consult resources like the MyFitnessPal recipe analyzer.

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a fantastic Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole comfort food that’s perfect for making ahead. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 20-30 minutes before storing. For refrigeration, divide the casserole into airtight containers. It will stay delicious in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this delightful dish even longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then microwave or bake it, or reheat directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until heated through. For more on food storage, check out the USDA’s food storage guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

What makes this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole so popular?

It’s the ultimate comfort food! This dish combines savory ground beef with tender rice and a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s incredibly satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, uses common ingredients, and always pleases a crowd, making it a go-to for busy weeknights and family gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole dinner option.

How to make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole with different cheeses?

You can absolutely swap out the cheddar! For a different flavor profile, try using Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, Pepper Jack for a little heat, or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. Just ensure you use about 1 cup of shredded cheese, and it will work perfectly in this Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe.

Can I add vegetables to my Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost nutrition and add extra flavor. I often stir in a cup of frozen peas or corn during the last 10 minutes of baking. Diced bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms can be added along with the ground beef in the initial cooking stage. This makes for a more complete Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

If you’re out of cream of mushroom soup, don’t worry! You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup. For a homemade option, you could make a simple roux with butter and flour, then whisk in milk and beef broth until thickened, seasoning well. This alternative works wonderfully when learning How to make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole without that classic ingredient.

Variations of Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole You Can Try

This classic dish is wonderfully versatile, and I love experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs. Here are a few ways you can switch up your usual Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole:

• Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or swap the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack with jalapeños. This transforms it into a zesty delight.
• Veggie Packed: Boost the nutrition by adding a cup of frozen corn and peas during the last 10 minutes of baking. You could also sauté some diced bell peppers and mushrooms with the onions for extra flavor and texture in your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Bake.
• Creamy Chicken Version: Swap the ground beef for cooked shredded chicken and use cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile. It’s still incredibly creamy and satisfying.
• Low-Carb Option: While not traditional, you could try using cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a lower-carb take on this comforting meal. It’s a great way to enjoy the cheesy goodness with fewer carbs.

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