Okay, let’s talk about comfort food. There is mac and cheese, sure. And then there is meatloaf. Have you ever had a really good time?Hamburger Rice Casserole.What is your grandma’s casserole? This version is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. What is the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the table? What is the easiest way to throw together a meal on weeknights? I’ve been making this for my family for years, and it’s always a hit, especially when the weather is bad. Is it like a warm hug in the kitchen? What is better than boxed mac and cheese?

What is Hamburger Rice Casserole?

A Hamburger Rice Casserole:What is essentially a one-dish meal consisting of ground beef, rice, and creamy sauce (usually made with ground pork). Can you make a condensed soup with vegetables? Think of it as a deconstructed cheeseburger, but in casserole form! What’s a great way to use up leftover rice? What is your family’ I’ve seen versions with tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers – the possibilities are endless. What is a classic American dish? I love the way all the flavors meld together during baking, creating a comforting and satisfying experience.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What do I love the most about this book?Hamburger Rice Casserole. is its simplicity. Seriously, it’s almost foolproof. Even on nights when I’m feeling totally drained, I can usually muster up the energy to make this because it requires minimal effort. But the flavor? Oh, the flavor! The combination of the savory ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and fluffy rice is just irresistible. My kids literally cheer when they see me pulling this out of the oven. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. Ground beef and rice are relatively inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly meal option. Plus, you can easily add in whatever veggies you have on hand to stretch it even further. And did I mention versatility? You can use different types of cheese, add different spices, or even swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! If you love easy weeknight meals like baked ziti or shepherd’s pie, you’re going to absolutely adore this casserole.

How do I make Hamburger Rice Casserole?

Quick Overview

Making this Hamburger Rice Casserole:Is it as easy as 1-2-3? Then, you mix everything together with a creamy cheese sauce and bake it until bubbly and golden brown. What is the beauty of this recipe? If you don’t have the exact ingredients listed, feel free to substitute. What’s all about creating a delicious meal that your family will love? Is it easier to order takeout than ordering online?

Ingredients

For The Hamburger:
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor, but leaner works too!)
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your favorite blend)
* 1/2 cup beef broth (adds extra flavor and moisture)

What is the recipe for Rice and Cheese Sauce?
* 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown, your choice) * 1 cup boiled rice
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream from chicken)
* 1 cup milk (I’ve used almond milk in a pinch, and it works great!)
* 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack) * 1 cup melted mozzarella cheese.
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional) (optional)

What is the best step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. How do I prevent a casserole from sticking? I always use a glass dish because it distributes the heat evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with the spoon as it cooks. How do you drain off grease from a casserole?

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. The aroma at this point is amazing!

Step 4: Season & Simmer

Stir in the paprika, Italian seasoning, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. What is the best way to make a delicious casserole?

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and softened cream. Serve immediately. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Make sure the cream cheese is softened. If you have lumps, you’ll end up with bumps.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Add the ground beef mixture to the rice and cheese sauce mixture. Mix well. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. Now it’s starting to look like a proper home.Hamburger Rice Casserole.!

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. What’s the best way to serve cheddar cheese over a tortilla? How do you create a golden brown crust?

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted. When it’s melted, it turns golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent the cheese from burning.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Remove from the oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

What is the best way to serve it?

This Hamburger Rice Casserole: is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also great served with a simple side dish. Here are a few ideas:

For a Light Lunch: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly.

For a Hearty Dinner: Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli. Adding a vegetable boosts the nutritional value of the meal.

For a Cozy Night In: Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks. Because sometimes you just need extra carbs!

My Personal Favorite: A side of coleslaw. The creamy coleslaw is a great contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole. My family has been enjoying this combination for years. It’s a tradition!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Hamburger Rice Casserole

Want to take your Hamburger Rice Casserole to the next level? Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years:

Beef Quality: Don’t skimp on the ground beef! Using a good quality ground beef will make a huge difference in the flavor of the casserole. I prefer using 80/20 ground beef because it has more flavor, but leaner ground beef works too.

Rice Choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of rice. White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice all work well in this casserole. Just make sure the rice is cooked before adding it to the mixture.

Cheese Variations: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the cheese! Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of different cheeses. I sometimes add a little bit of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Veggie Boost: Add some extra vegetables to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor. Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas all work well. I often add a can of drained diced tomatoes for extra flavor and moisture.

Spice It Up: If you like a little bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture. You can also add some chopped jalapeños for a spicier kick.

Soup Substitutions: If you don’t have condensed cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can substitute condensed cream of chicken soup or even condensed cream of celery soup. You can also make your own cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, and milk.

Flavor Enhancement: For a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef mixture. This will add a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible. My grandma always swore by this trick!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Hamburger Rice Casserole is great for meal prepping because it stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly sealed to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can also store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Methods: To reheat the casserole, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave it in individual portions. Add a splash of milk or beef broth to prevent it from drying out.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’ve added a glaze, it’s best to add it after reheating the casserole. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy during storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free rice and a gluten-free condensed soup substitute (there are many available). Also, double-check that your Italian seasoning blend is gluten-free, as some may contain wheat-based fillers.

Do I need to cook the rice beforehand?

Yes, definitely cook the rice before adding it to the casserole! Using pre-cooked rice ensures that the casserole has the right texture and consistency.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can! Ground turkey or even ground chicken are great substitutes for ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as ground turkey and chicken tend to be milder in flavor than ground beef.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to customize this casserole and boost its nutritional value. Some popular options include chopped bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, peas, and corn.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

To prevent the casserole from drying out, make sure to use enough liquid in the cheese sauce mixture. You can also cover the casserole with foil during the first half of the baking time to help retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Hamburger Rice Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a taste of childhood, and a reminder that sometimes the simplest things are the best. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. What more could you ask for? If you’re looking for another easy casserole recipe, you might also enjoy my Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole – it’s another family favorite! I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts and variations. Happy cooking!