Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

Are you in search of the ultimate comfort food? Look no further! This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Combining tender ground beef, creamy rice, gooey cheese, and flavorful veggies, this one-pan casserole is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or a crowd, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.


What is Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a baked dish made with ground beef, rice, vegetables, cheese, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. The ingredients come together in a creamy, cheesy mix that’s baked to golden perfection. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and a crowd-pleaser every time.


Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

  • Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef
  • Rice: 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice
  • Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
  • Bell Peppers: 1 cup diced (red, green, or yellow)
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Tomato Sauce: 1 can (15 ounces)
  • Beef Broth: 2 cups
  • Frozen Peas and Carrots: 1 cup
  • Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing

Seasonings and Spices:

  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
  • Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional, for heat)

Substitutions and Variations

  • Meat: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Grains: Use brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition.
  • Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
  • Vegetables: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

  • Chop the onion and bell peppers.
  • Mince the garlic.
  • Measure out rice, cheese, and spices.

Step 2: Cook Ground Beef

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  • Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

  • Add onion and bell peppers to the skillet.
  • Cook until tender (about 5 minutes).
  • Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquid

  • Pour uncooked rice, beef broth, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet.
  • Stir to combine.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

  • Add paprika, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until rice is cooked.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

  • Stir in frozen peas and carrots.
  • Cook for 5 more minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Add Cheese

  • Remove skillet from heat.
  • Stir in half the cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 8: Assemble and Bake

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Spread evenly.

Step 9: Top with Cheese

  • Sprinkle remaining cheese over the casserole.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Presentation and Serving Tips

  • Family-Style: Serve straight from the baking dish for a rustic feel.
  • Individual Portions: Scoop servings onto plates or into bowls for a polished presentation.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions for added color.

Suggested Side Dishes:

  • Crusty bread
  • Fresh garden salad
  • Steamed vegetables

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking Beef: Avoid cooking the beef too long during the browning step to keep it tender.
  • Undercooking Rice: Ensure the rice is fully cooked during the simmering stage.
  • Skipping Resting Time: Let the casserole rest to allow flavors to meld and make it easier to serve.

Make-Ahead, Freezing, and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead:

  • Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Freezing:

  • Assemble but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, adjust the cooking time based on the rice package instructions.

Can this casserole be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with plant-based meat or extra vegetables, and use vegetable broth.

What other cheeses can I use?

Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Mexican cheese blends work great.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, include your favorites like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.


Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole combines savory ground beef, creamy rice, and melted cheese for a meal that’s both hearty and comforting. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this dish is a surefire hit. It’s simple, delicious, and customizable—a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Happy cooking!

About Author

Arone.H is a Features Writer at Go astuces , where they share their passion for style, hair, and nails through every piece they create.

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