Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is not only a comforting dish; it is also a perfect solution for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this casserole up in no time.
- Perfect for Beginners: If you’re new to cooking, this recipe is foolproof and requires no advanced skills.
- Ideal for the Whole Family: This dish pleases both kids and adults, making it a great family meal.
- Economical: Made with budget-friendly ingredients, it’s a delicious meal that doesn’t break the bank.
- Customizable: You can adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making it flexible and versatile.
The Necessary Ingredients
Before you get started, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1½ lb ground beef (80–90% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or 3 cups cooked)
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz each)
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup sour cream (optional)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar, freshly shredded, divided
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for the pan)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:
- Ground Beef: Lean beef keeps the dish healthy while offering great flavor. You can substitute it with ground turkey for a lighter option or use a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds richness and creaminess to the casserole. If you prefer a homemade option, you can use a homemade cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms.
- Rice: Long-grain rice works best for this recipe, but you can use brown rice for a healthier alternative. However, it may require more cooking time and additional broth.
How to Prepare the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Step by Step
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and butter it to prevent sticking.
Pro Tip: Use olive oil instead of butter if you want a lighter option, or if you’re watching dairy intake.
2. Cook the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet, add your ground beef and diced onion. Cook them over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, or until the beef is browned. Once cooked, drain the fat.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Pro Tip: Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent the beef from sticking to the skillet.
3. Mix in Other Ingredients
Off the heat, add the cream of mushroom soup, 1½ cups of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, sour cream (if using), and 1 cup of shredded cheddar to the beef mixture. Stir well until everything is nicely combined.
Pro Tip: Make sure to taste the mixture for seasoning. You can add more salt or pepper if needed.
4. Combine with Rice (Uncooked Rice Method)
If using uncooked rice, rinse it first and spread it evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the rice, and add the remaining ½ cup of beef broth. Stir gently to mix everything.
Pro Tip: Rinsing the rice helps remove extra starch, preventing a gooey texture.
5. Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until the rice is tender. If you notice the rice isn’t fully cooked, add another ¼ cup of broth and bake for an additional 8–12 minutes.
Pro Tip: Check if the rice is tender before removing the foil to avoid sticking.
6. Add Cheddar and Bake Again
After the initial baking, uncover the dish and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar on top. Bake it for another 8–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, you can mix some spices or herbs with the cheese before sprinkling it on top.
7. For the Cooked Rice Method
If you’re using pre-cooked rice, start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir 3 cups of cooked rice into the beef mixture. Then transfer everything to the baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for 15–20 minutes until warm and bubbly.
Pro Tip: Make sure the cooked rice is well incorporated to ensure even heating.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is satisfying on its own, but here are some ideas for making your meal even more delightful:
Perfect Pairings
- Side Salad: A refreshing green salad can balance the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, serve with warm garlic bread for dipping.
- Wine: A chilled white wine or a light red can complement the dish beautifully.
Occasions
- Weeknight Dinner: This dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weekdays.
- Potluck: It’s perfect for sharing at casual gatherings with friends and family.
- Comfort Food Night: Ideal for a cozy movie night in front of the TV.
Serving Tips
- Garnish: Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness before serving.
- Serving Size: Cut into generous squares or serve in bowls with a scoop on top for a heartwarming presentation.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerated
- Duration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Type of Container: Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids to keep the casserole fresh.
Freezed
- If Possible: You can freeze portions of the casserole for later meals.
- Packaging: Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or transfer to freezer-safe containers.
- Defrosting: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
- Best Method: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–30 minutes until heated through. You can cover it with foil to retain moisture.
Guaranteed Success Tips
- Follow the Recipe Closely: Stick to the measurements for best results as ingredient proportions matter.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid a dry casserole.
- Don’t Rush the Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest after baking; this helps the flavors meld together.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality ingredients elevate the taste; fresh cheese and meat make a huge difference.
- Season Well: Taste and adjust seasonings as you go to ensure a well-seasoned dish.
Recipe Variations
- For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for heat.
- For a Veggie-Packed Option: Mix in some frozen peas and carrots into the beef mixture for added nutrition.
- For a Dairy-Free Version: Substitute dairy ingredients with coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and bake it the next day. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Q2: What if I’m out of beef broth?
A: You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth, depending on your preference. Just ensure you use the low-sodium variety to control salt levels.
Q3: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the baking time and add more liquid.
Q4: How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own from scratch. Most Worcestershire sauces are also gluten-free, but be sure to check labels.
Q5: What should I do if my casserole is too dry?
A: If it seems dry after baking, you can drizzle a little more broth over the top before serving to add moisture.
Q6: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Replace ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Q7: How can I add more flavor to the dish?
A: Consider adding herbs or spices such as thyme, oregano, or even a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, and let this comforting dish bring smiles to your table!
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients Â
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb ground beef (80–90% lean) Lean beef keeps the dish healthy while offering great flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or 3 cups cooked) Rinse uncooked rice before using.
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz each) Can use homemade cream sauce as a substitute.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth Can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 cup sour cream (optional)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar, freshly shredded, divided For better melting, use freshly shredded cheddar.
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- to taste Salt & black pepper
- 1–2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for the pan) Use olive oil for a lighter option.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish Add for a pop of color.
InstructionsÂ
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cooking the Beef and Onion
- In a large skillet, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes until the beef is browned. Drain the fat.
- Add minced garlic, and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Mixing Ingredients
- Remove from heat and mix in cream of mushroom soup, 1½ cups beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, optional sour cream, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Stir until combined.
Combine with Rice
- If using uncooked rice, rinse it and spread it evenly in the baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the rice and add the remaining ½ cup of beef broth. Mix gently.
Baking the Casserole
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45–55 minutes until the rice is tender.
- If needed, add another ¼ cup of broth and bake an additional 8–12 minutes.
Adding Cheese
- Uncover and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake another 8–10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
For Cooked Rice Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Stir 3 cups of cooked rice into the beef mixture, transfer to baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for 15–20 minutes.