Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting dish perfect for families. It’s a one-pot meal that is simple to prepare and satisfying. With ingredients you might already have in your kitchen, this casserole is great for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a hit with both kids and adults!
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
Serve the casserole warm right from the oven. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a simple salad for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle extra cheese or fresh herbs on top for added flavor.
How to Store Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
- For extra flavor, try adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms when browning the meat.
- If you prefer a little kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture.
- You can use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for different tastes.
Variation
If you want to make this dish lighter, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with cooked beans or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it. When you are ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure it cools completely before putting it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
3. What can I serve with Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a side of green vegetables, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version.
- 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.75 oz)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Other cheese options include mozzarella or pepper jack.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 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.
Cooking
- 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.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.