Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that the whole family will love? This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the perfect solution. It combines savory ground beef, aromatic seasonings, and gooey cheese in one hearty, delicious dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just want a quick meal that feels like a warm hug, this casserole hits the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole brings together the best of everything: it’s loaded with cheesy goodness, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder—meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones!

Ingredients Breakdown

• 1 pound ground beef: Adds protein and rich flavor. You can also swap this with ground turkey or chicken.
• 1 onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, savory base to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of spice.
• 1 cup uncooked white rice: Absorbs all the delicious juices and brings texture to the casserole.
• 2 cups beef broth: Adds moisture and flavor, helping the rice cook to perfection.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides acidity and a slight sweetness that balances the richness of the beef.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
• 1 teaspoon oregano: Brings in a touch of herbiness, enhancing the savory notes of the dish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, cheesy finish.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides a gooey, stretchy texture that’s irresistible.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly.
2. Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent. Be sure to break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once done, drain any excess grease.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (including the juice), paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together well so the rice can absorb the flavors of the seasoned broth and tomatoes.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, which will help cook the rice perfectly.
5. Bake: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Add Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7. Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to scoop and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking the Rice: Make sure the casserole is baked long enough for the rice to become fully tender. If the rice isn’t done, cover it again and bake for a few more minutes.
• Too Much Grease: Drain excess grease from the cooked ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Cheese Overload: While extra cheese might sound tempting, too much can make the casserole overly rich and greasy. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Add Veggies: Sneak in some veggies by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skillet with the beef and onions.
• Switch Up the Meat: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even ground sausage for a more robust flavor.
• Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a lovely presentation, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions to add a pop of color. Serve this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that balances out the rich, cheesy goodness.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge (if frozen), and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For a quick reheat, microwave individual portions until warm.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and add extra broth as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Tips

• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts. For best results, shred your own cheese from a block.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Taste the mixture before baking to adjust salt and pepper levels, especially if using low-sodium broth.

conclusion

We hope you love this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe as much as we do! It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more comforting and easy recipes!

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