If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that’s both family-friendly and budget-conscious, look no further than this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. It’s a hearty, one-pan wonder that brings together simple pantry staples—ground beef, rice, cheese, and a creamy tomato base—for a cozy and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this casserole is quick to prepare, reheats beautifully, and delivers rich flavor in every bite.
What makes this dish a standout is its versatility. You can easily customize it with vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas, and it works just as well with leftover rice or freshly cooked.
The savory seasoned beef pairs deliciously with gooey melted cheese and tender rice, all baked together until bubbly and golden. It’s a meal that kids and adults both devour, and it doubles well for potlucks or freezer meals.
Best of all, Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it a convenient go-to recipe. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or a flexible foundation for your own flavor twists, this casserole will quickly become a regular part of your dinner rotation.
Best Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
Made with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, melty cheddar cheese, and a savory blend of spices, it’s a hearty one-dish meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
The casserole bakes up golden and bubbly, with a satisfying texture and cheesy goodness in every bite.
It's simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and family-approved. You can customize it with veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Best of all, it reheats beautifully for leftovers!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray or butter.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
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To the beef mixture, stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth, stirring until well combined.
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Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Remove the foil and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for another 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 95mg32%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 28g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Best Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole: Tips, Serving Tricks, and Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a hearty, one-pan dish that combines savory ground beef, flavorful rice, and melty cheese to create a filling meal perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these tips will help you make the best cheesy hamburger rice casserole, with serving tricks and a conclusion that wraps it all together.
Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
- Use Lean Ground Beef
To avoid excess grease, opt for lean ground beef, such as 90% lean. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use regular ground beef, but be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the meat. This keeps the casserole from becoming greasy. - Cook the Rice Separately
While it’s tempting to cook the rice directly in the casserole, cooking it separately ensures the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t absorb too much liquid, leaving it too dry or mushy. You can use long-grain white rice or jasmine rice for the best texture. If you prefer brown rice, make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. - Add Flavorful Vegetables
To elevate the flavor profile, add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Sauté these with the beef to allow them to soften and release their flavors before assembling the casserole. You can also include frozen peas, corn, or carrots for added texture and color. - Season Generously
The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper will elevate the flavor of the casserole. Feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for a touch of Italian flavor or chili powder for some heat. Adjust seasoning to taste for a personalized flavor profile. - Use the Right Cheese
Cheddar cheese is the go-to choice for this casserole, but you can also mix it up with mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey texture or Parmesan for a sharp kick. You can top the casserole with shredded cheese and bake it until golden and bubbly, or even mix cheese into the casserole for that rich, melty goodness. - Make it a One-Pot Meal
While the casserole is already a one-dish meal, you can streamline the process even further by using fewer dishes. Cook the ground beef in the same pan you use to sauté your veggies, then add the rice, seasonings, and other ingredients in the same pot before baking. - Adjust Liquid Based on Rice Type
If you're using brown rice, it requires more liquid and a longer cook time than white rice. Be sure to adjust the liquid ratio accordingly, adding a little extra beef broth or water to compensate for the longer cooking time.
Serving Tricks for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
- Serve with a Side Salad
This casserole is rich and hearty, so pairing it with a crisp green salad can help balance out the meal. A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and color to your plate. - Pair with Garlic Bread or Biscuits
To make the meal even more comforting, serve it with a side of garlic bread or biscuits. The bread will soak up the flavorful sauce from the casserole, making each bite more satisfying. - Garnish with Fresh Herbs
Garnishing your casserole with chopped parsley, cilantro, or even green onions adds a pop of color and freshness. Fresh herbs can lighten up the richness of the casserole and add a beautiful finish. - Meal Prep for the Week
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole makes a great meal prep dish. You can make it ahead of time, store individual portions in airtight containers, and refrigerate them for up to 4–5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for busy nights when you want a quick and comforting meal. - Customize for Dietary Preferences
You can easily modify the casserole to meet dietary preferences. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. If you're avoiding dairy, try dairy-free cheese and sour cream. For a gluten-free option, swap regular rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy families or those looking for a satisfying meal on a budget. With a few key tips—like using lean ground beef, cooking rice separately, and seasoning generously—you’ll be able to create a delicious and filling dish that can be enjoyed all year round.
Add your favorite vegetables and cheese, serve it with a side salad or bread, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or preparing a quick dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your table.
With its rich, cheesy goodness and endless customization options, it’s no wonder why cheesy hamburger rice casserole is a beloved dish in many households. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of this simple yet flavorful casserole—it's a classic for a reason!
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use instant rice or brown rice instead of regular white rice?
Yes. Instant rice works well for a quick version—just reduce the cooking time and liquid slightly. Brown rice can be used, but it requires more liquid and a longer baking time (add 15–20 minutes). For best results, partially cook the brown rice before adding it to the casserole.
What type of cheese works best in this casserole?
Sharp cheddar is the most popular for its bold flavor and good meltability. However, you can mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, mozzarella, or even a little Parmesan for variety. Use freshly shredded cheese if possible—it melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time or freeze it?
Absolutely. Prepare the casserole as directed but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake as needed (add 10–15 extra minutes if cold).
For freezing, assemble in a foil pan, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
How can I make it healthier or add vegetables?
For a lighter version, use lean ground beef or ground turkey and substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
To boost nutrition, mix in vegetables like peas, carrots, diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. These can be sautéed with the meat or stirred in raw before baking.
