If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week, this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the answer! Featuring savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, sour cream, and perfectly cooked rice, this casserole is topped with melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole is simple to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into this delicious, cheesy dish!
Ingredients
This casserole combines simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef (1 lb, 80/20 blend): Ground beef adds hearty, savory flavor and protein to the dish. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- White or Yellow Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Onion adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a savory, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Long-Grain White Rice (1 cup, uncooked): White rice cooks directly in the casserole, absorbing all the delicious flavors. You can also use brown rice for added nutrition, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
- Beef Broth (2 cups): Beef broth adds rich flavor to the rice as it cooks, making it tender and savory. Chicken or vegetable broth can also be used if preferred.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Cream of mushroom soup provides a creamy base and adds a subtle, earthy flavor to the casserole.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Sour cream adds creaminess and a tangy touch that balances the rich flavors of the dish.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Worcestershire sauce enhances the savory depth of the casserole, adding a touch of umami.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors in the dish. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the casserole, creating a gooey, cheesy topping. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note that complements the richness of the casserole.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent the rice from drying out during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to set.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness!
Duration Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
- Total Time: 75-85 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugars: 3g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook, about 10-15 minutes more. Check the rice for doneness before removing the casserole from the oven.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
4. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, you can add vegetables like diced bell peppers, peas, mushrooms, or chopped spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for added flavor and creaminess.
6. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
7. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Make sure to cover the casserole tightly with foil during baking to keep the moisture in. If the casserole seems dry, you can add a little extra broth before baking.
8. Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
9. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure the soup and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
10. Can I use instant rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as instant rice cooks much faster. Add the instant rice during the last 20 minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, creamy rice, and plenty of melted cheese into one delicious dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, this casserole is easy to make and packed with flavor. So grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a warm, cheesy, satisfying meal that everyone will love!