Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

What is Hamburger Rice Casserole?

Hamburger Rice Casserole is a hearty, budget-friendly dish that combines ground beef, rice, vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce into a satisfying baked casserole. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep and uses simple pantry ingredients to create a comforting meal your whole family will love.

Ingredients

Classic Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or 3 cups cooked rice)
• 2 cups beef broth (for cooking rice)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or oregano)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Healthier Alternatives:

• Ground turkey or lean ground beef (90/10) for less fat.
• Substitute brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber.
• Use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup or homemade cream sauce.
• Opt for low-fat shredded cheese or plant-based cheese.
• Replace frozen vegetables with fresh or steamed veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Combine 1 cup uncooked rice with 2 cups beef broth in a pot.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Set aside. If using pre-cooked rice, skip this step.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

1. Lower the skillet heat and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cooked rice, frozen vegetables, and thyme.
2. Mix thoroughly. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of broth or water.

Step 4: Add Cheese

1. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and bind the ingredients.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Spread the casserole mixture evenly in the dish.
3. Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Serve

1. Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Substitutions and Variations

Protein Variations:

• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.

Grain Alternatives:

• Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to suit your dietary needs.

Vegetable Options:

• Add fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.

Cheese Options:

• Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

Sauce Substitutions:

• Replace cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade white sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette.
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls.

Garnishing:

• Sprinkle fresh parsley, chives, or green onions for added color and flavor.
• Top with crispy fried onions or toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing:

• Assemble the casserole (without baking) and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.

Tips for Success

1. Season Layers: Season each component (rice, beef, and vegetables) for maximum flavor.
2. Avoid Overcooking Rice: Slightly undercook the rice before baking to prevent mushiness.
3. Drain Excess Fat: Ensure the beef is drained properly to avoid a greasy casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
A: Yes, use a dairy-free cream sauce and plant-based cheese alternatives.

Q: How long does this dish take to prepare?
A: Total time is about 50-60 minutes, including prep and baking.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Fresh or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers are excellent additions.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked rice?
A: Yes, using pre-cooked rice saves time. Adjust the liquid to prevent the mixture from becoming too dry.

Conclusion

Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting, customizable dish perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Packed with hearty ground beef, creamy rice, colorful veggies, and melty cheese, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and make dinnertime a little easier and a lot tastier!