Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding the family, this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a must-try. Combining seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and plenty of gooey cheese, this casserole is creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that can be prepped in under an hour. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even potlucks. Keep reading to learn how to make this cheesy, comforting dish!

this Recipe

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What Is "Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole"?

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a simple yet delicious baked dish that layers seasoned ground beef with tender rice and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a one-dish meal that brings together the flavors of a classic cheeseburger and the coziness of a casserole. The dish is baked in the oven until bubbly and golden, making it a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights. You can also customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or seasonings, making it versatile enough for different tastes and dietary needs.

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Ingredients List for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole:

1. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Provides a hearty, savory base for the casserole.
2. White or Brown Rice (1 cup, uncooked) – The rice will cook to perfection as it bakes with the beef and cheese.
3. Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the casserole.
4. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – For extra flavor.
5. Beef Broth (2 cups) – Helps cook the rice and adds rich, beefy flavor.
6. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Adds gooey, melty cheesiness to the casserole.
7. Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – Makes the casserole creamy and binds the ingredients together. You can also use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
8. Milk (½ cup) – Adds creaminess to the dish.
9. Butter (1 tablespoon) – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
10. Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Adds a tangy, savory depth to the beef.
11. Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds color and a subtle smoky flavor.
12. Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the beef and casserole.
13. Optional Veggies – Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or green beans can be added to make it more nutritious.

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Substitutions and Variations for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to make substitutions and variations based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
2. Vegetarian Version – Omit the beef and add extra vegetables or plant-based meat crumbles to make it vegetarian.
3. Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
4. Different Cheeses – Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese for a different flavor.
5. Spicy Version – Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
6. Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the beef with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then remove the beef mixture from heat and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

• While the beef is cooking, cook the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring the beef broth to a boil, then stir in the uncooked rice. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork when done.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked ground beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
• If you're adding any optional vegetables, fold them into the mixture at this point.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
• Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

• Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!

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How to Cook Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the Beef – Sauté onions and garlic, then brown the ground beef with seasonings.
2. Cook the Rice – Cook the rice in beef broth for added flavor.
3. Mix the Ingredients – Combine the cooked beef, rice, cheese, soup, and milk.
4. Assemble the Casserole – Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish, then top with cheese.
5. Bake – Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is easy, here are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results:

1. Overcooking the Beef – Be careful not to overcook the beef when browning it, as it can become dry and tough. Cook just until no longer pink.
2. Undercooking the Rice – Make sure the rice is fully cooked and tender before adding it to the casserole. Undercooked rice can result in a gritty texture.
3. Using Too Little Cheese – Cheese is a key ingredient for flavor and texture in this casserole. Don’t skimp on it!
4. Not Seasoning Enough – Be sure to season the beef, rice, and sauce generously with salt, pepper, and other seasonings for a flavorful dish.
5. Skipping the Foil – Covering the casserole with foil while baking helps prevent the top from browning too quickly and ensures the dish stays moist.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole look as good as it tastes, follow these serving tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top of the casserole for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve with a Salad – Pair the rich, cheesy casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
3. Use a Serving Spoon – For an easy family-style meal, place the casserole on the table with a large serving spoon and let everyone help themselves.

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How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to be served on its own, but here are some great sides and accompaniments:

• Green Salad – A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the cheesy casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables – Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or peas for extra nutrition.
• Garlic Bread – A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread complements the casserole perfectly.
• Pickles or Pickled Vegetables – For a tangy side dish, serve with pickles or pickled vegetables like cucumbers or carrots.

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Presentation Ideas for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Here are some fun ways to present your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole to make it look even more inviting:

1. Bake in Individual Ramekins – For a more elegant presentation, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes.
2. Top with Extra Cheese – Sprinkle a bit of extra cheese and broil the casserole for the last few minutes for an extra gooey, cheesy top.
3. Garnish with Herbs – Add a garnish of fresh parsley, chives, or even a drizzle of sour cream for color and added flavor.
4. Serve Family-Style – Bring the casserole straight to the table in the baking dish and let everyone dig in.

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Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you perfect this **Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

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1. Make It Ahead – You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
2. Double the Recipe – This casserole freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing one for later. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
3. Reheat Gently – To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Q: Can I use minute rice?
A: Yes, you can use minute rice to save time. Just cook it according to the package instructions and add it to the casserole as usual.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

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Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the perfect weeknight meal that combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and plenty of cheese into one delicious, comforting dish. With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have on hand, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're serving it for dinner or preparing it in advance for meal prepping, this easy casserole delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try, and enjoy a cheesy, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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