Looking for an easy family meal that everyone will love? You’ve found it! My Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is simple to make and packed with flavor. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a comforting dish that warms hearts and fills bellies. Ready to dive into this tasty recipe? Let’s transform your dinner routine with a dish that makes family time even better!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, and carrots)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
These are the key ingredients for a tasty Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. Each item adds flavor and texture to the dish, making it a family favorite.
Optional Ingredients
– Additional cheese varieties (like mozzarella or pepper jack)
– Other vegetables (such as bell peppers or broccoli)
– Spices (like paprika or crushed red pepper)
Feel free to mix and match these optional ingredients. They can add your personal touch to the casserole.
Suggested Substitutions
– Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
– Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
– Brown rice instead of white rice for more fiber
– Cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom soup
These substitutions can help you customize the dish. They also allow you to meet specific dietary needs or preferences. Enjoy experimenting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will make sure your casserole bakes evenly. Waiting for the oven to heat up is important. It helps the rice cook just right and absorb all the flavors.
Cooking the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet, add one tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add one small, finely diced onion. Cook it for 3-4 minutes until it turns soft and clear. Then, add one pound of ground beef. Break it up as it cooks for 5-7 minutes. Make sure it is browned and there is no pink left. Don’t forget to drain any fat from the pan. This keeps the dish light and tasty.
Combining and Transferring Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onions with one cup of long-grain rice. Pour in two cups of beef broth. Next, add one cup of frozen mixed vegetables. This can be peas, corn, and carrots. Lastly, stir in one can of cream of mushroom soup. Mix everything well until the rice is coated in the creamy sauce.
Baking and Adding Cheese
Now, pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Cover this dish with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake it for 25 minutes. This lets the rice soak up the broth. After 25 minutes, take off the foil. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven without the foil. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Once it’s baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve. You can serve it right from the dish for a cozy meal. If you want, add fresh chopped parsley on top for color and flavor. Enjoy your warm, cheesy hamburger rice casserole!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Casserole
To make your cheesy hamburger rice casserole shine, focus on fresh ingredients. Always use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor. You want it to be juicy and tender. Sauté the onions until they are soft and fragrant. This step builds a great base for your dish. When mixing the beef, rice, and other ingredients, be sure to combine them well. This helps the flavors meld together.
Time-saving Tips
Prepare your ingredients in advance. Chop the onion and measure the rice and broth. This makes cooking easier and quicker. You can also use pre-cooked rice to cut down on cooking time. Just mix it in at the end. If you have leftover cooked beef, use it instead of raw beef. This saves time and adds flavor.
Essential Cooking Tools
You will need some simple tools to make this dish. A large skillet works well for browning the beef and onions. A large mixing bowl is key for combining ingredients. Use a 9×13 inch casserole dish for baking. A spatula helps you mix and transfer the ingredients. Lastly, aluminum foil is handy for covering the casserole while it bakes. Keep these tools close, and your cooking will flow smoothly!

Variations
Vegetarian-Friendly Options
You can easily make a vegetarian version of this casserole. Swap ground beef for a mix of beans or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach. This change keeps it hearty while adding great flavor.
Using Different Cheeses
Cheddar cheese is classic, but feel free to experiment. Mozzarella gives a stretchy texture and a mild flavor. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick. You can even mix cheeses for a unique taste. Just remember to adjust the amount to keep it cheesy and delicious.
Alternative Vegetables
Frozen mixed veggies work well, but fresh can shine too. Try adding diced zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms. They can add extra nutrients and flavor. Don’t forget to consider seasonal veggies. Using what’s fresh can make your casserole even better.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
You can store Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole in an airtight container. Make sure it cools first. It will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. When storing, try to separate portions. This helps with reheating later.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the casserole, place it in a microwave-safe dish. Heat it on medium power for about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze the casserole, let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat using the oven or microwave.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare the dish up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, remove it from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes it easy to serve a warm meal on busy nights.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you have options. You can use cream of chicken soup for a similar taste. Another choice is to make a homemade version using milk, flour, and mushrooms. This gives a fresh flavor. You can also try sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know the casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Look for a golden color on top. The rice should be tender and cooked through. You can test it by inserting a fork into the dish. If the rice is soft and the mixture is hot, it’s ready to serve.
This blog post covered every step to make a great casserole. We went over the main and optional ingredients, plus helpful substitutions. You learned how to prep, cook, and serve your dish. I shared tips to perfect your casserole and save time. You can even explore tasty variations and how to store leftovers.
Cooking can be fun and easy. Try these steps for a great meal. Enjoy your cooking!
