Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a warm, comforting meal that hits all the right notes, then this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is exactly what you need. This dish brings together the savory richness of ground beef, the creamy goodness of mushroom soup, and the irresistible meltiness of cheddar cheese all baked to perfection. It has the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make it a family favorite for weeknight dinners or any time you want a satisfying, easy-to-make meal. Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, it will become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All these ingredients are simple staples, yet each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color in this casserole. From the hearty ground beef to the creamy mushroom soup and sharp cheddar cheese, every component shines.

• 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that delivers flavor and satisfaction.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef as it cooks.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: For a subtle aromatic punch that complements the meat.
• 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked: Absorbs the savory broth and soup mixture perfectly.
• 2 cups beef broth: Gives moisture and rich beef flavor to the rice as it cooks.
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Adds creamy texture and earthy notes that bring the casserole together.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully on top for a sharp, gooey finish.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers mild heat and balances the creaminess.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smoky sweetness and color contrast.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds brightness and a fresh herbal note at the end.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Beef Mixture

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is thoroughly browned, and the onions become soft and translucent. This step builds a savory foundation, so make sure to drain any excess fat before moving on.

Step 2: Combine Rice, Broth, and Soup

Next, stir the uncooked long-grain rice into the skillet with the beef mixture, then pour in the beef broth and cream of mushroom soup. Season everything evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to add that subtle warmth and complexity. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, letting it simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This short simmer jumpstarts the rice absorption and blends the flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and cover it tightly with aluminum foil. Pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C), baking for 25 minutes. This allows the rice to cook fully and soak up all those rich flavors.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

After the initial bake, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 10 to 15 minutes. This final bake melts the cheese into a golden, bubbly layer that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of the casserole. This simple garnish adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal lift that balances the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with crisp green salads, steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans, or even some warm garlic bread can round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins or small casserole dishes for a personal touch. You could also add a layer of sliced tomatoes or bell peppers on top before baking for an extra colorful and flavorful variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftover Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for convenient lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or a preheated oven set at 350°F until warmed through. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating can revive that fresh-baked, cheesy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use different types of rice for the casserole?

Long-grain rice works best because it absorbs the flavors well and cooks evenly. However, you could experiment with jasmine or basmati for subtle fragrance variations, just be sure to adjust the liquid as needed.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers paired with vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Just add the cheese topping and bake it when you’re ready to eat for the freshest results.

How spicy is this casserole?

The base recipe has a mild warmth from paprika, but if you love heat, adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes before baking will give it a nice kick.

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

You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or make a quick homemade white sauce with mushrooms for a fresh and flavorful alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is pure comfort food at its finest—easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for bringing those around your table closer with every delicious bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. Give it a try and experience how something so simple can taste so incredibly good.

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