Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of beef, cheese, and rice. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a family dinner. This recipe offers comfort food at its best, making it a great choice for weeknight meals or gatherings. Plus, it’s packed with ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, making it both convenient and budget-friendly.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
2 cups beef broth
1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and mushroom soup. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is best served warm. You can dish it out directly from the baking dish to individual plates. It pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider adding some crusty bread on the side for mopping up any cheesy goodness.

How to Store Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Make sure to drain the fat from the cooked beef to keep the casserole from being greasy.
If you want extra flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the beef.
For a spicy kick, you can add some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
Feel free to use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for added flavor.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like peas, corn, or diced tomatoes. These can add color and nutrients to the dish. Vegetarian options can also be made by substituting ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using a white sauce.