Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the kind of comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. With seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy, savory sauce baked together in one dish, it delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is practical and satisfying. It uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.
The rice absorbs the savory flavors of the beef and sauce as it bakes, resulting in a cohesive and hearty dish. It is ideal for feeding a family and makes excellent leftovers.
Another reason to appreciate this recipe is its adaptability. You can incorporate vegetables, adjust seasoning, or add cheese to suit your taste. It is a versatile meal that can be customized without complicated preparation.
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Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole: A Hearty One-Dish Family Favorite
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and comforting hamburger rice casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and melted cheese. This easy one-dish dinner is perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, until rice is tender.
- Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the dish is tightly covered to allow rice to cook properly.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add frozen mixed vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Forms the protein-rich base of the casserole.
Long-grain white rice
Absorbs the savory flavors and provides structure.
Onion (diced)
Adds depth and aromatic flavor.
Garlic cloves (minced)
Enhance the savory profile.
Beef broth
Infuses the rice with rich flavor during baking.
Cream of mushroom soup
Creates a creamy, cohesive texture.
Milk
Thins the soup slightly and improves creaminess.
Salt
Balances and enhances flavors.
Black pepper
Adds subtle heat.
Paprika
Introduces mild warmth and color.
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Adds a melty, golden topping.
Frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
Provide added nutrition and texture.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain excess grease if necessary.
In a mixing bowl, combine beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the prepared baking dish. Add the cooked beef mixture on top. If using vegetables, distribute them evenly over the beef.
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring the rice is fully covered.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid absorbed.
If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking. Remove foil and bake uncovered until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 60–70 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until heated through.
The casserole can be frozen for up to two months. Wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is easy to modify. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
You can replace white rice with brown rice, though the baking time may need to be extended slightly. I have also added diced tomatoes for extra flavor and moisture.
For a cheesier dish, mix shredded cheese directly into the casserole before baking. You may also use different soups such as cream of chicken or cream of celery for a flavor variation.
Adding herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the overall flavor. For a bit of spice, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes.
If you prefer a crispier topping, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs over the casserole during the final 10 minutes of baking.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cover Tightly
Properly sealing with foil ensures the rice cooks evenly.
Do Not Stir During Baking
Allow the rice to absorb liquid undisturbed.
Rest Before Serving
Resting helps the casserole set for easier portioning.
Adjust Liquid If Needed
If rice seems firm, add a small amount of hot broth and continue baking.
FAQs
Can I use cooked rice instead?
Yes, reduce the liquid and baking time accordingly.
Why is my rice undercooked?
Ensure the dish is tightly covered and enough liquid is used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Can I use instant rice?
Instant rice may cook too quickly and become soft.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well when properly wrapped.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely, vegetables can be added without affecting structure.
Conclusion
Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a dependable, hearty meal that combines simple ingredients into a satisfying baked dish. With minimal preparation and adaptable options, it is ideal for busy evenings or family dinners. Comforting and practical, this recipe is sure to remain a staple in your kitchen.
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