Ah, cozy nights in! There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy meal that wraps you in a blanket of happiness. I remember the chilly evenings when I’d come home from school, the aroma of something bubbling away in the oven, and the feeling of pure joy that filled our home. Those meals were often simple but packed with flavor, and they always brought us together at the table. Today, I want to share a dish that captures that same warmth and nostalgia—the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. It’s one of those meals that feels like a big hug on a plate.
This casserole is a delightful combination of ground beef, rice, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s an easy recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a comforting meal, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
This casserole isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly practical for any home cook. Here’s why you’ll want to make it:
- It’s a one-dish wonder! Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Simple ingredients make it accessible for everyone, even if you’re just starting your cooking journey.
- It’s versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a perfect dish for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the stars of the show—our ingredients! This recipe uses everyday staples that you probably already have in your pantry, making it a go-to for last-minute dinners. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
You’ll find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below!
How to Make This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, Step-by-Step
Now, let’s dive into the cooking process! It’s straightforward and a lot of fun. Here’s how to whip up this delightful casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is nicely browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the delicious mixture to your prepared baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for!
- Finally, garnish with chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
Here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours, to help you achieve the best results:
- Be sure to drain the beef properly; excess fat can make the casserole greasy.
- If you want to add some veggies, feel free to toss in some frozen peas or corn when you stir in the rice and broth.
- For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture!
Serving Suggestions
Once your casserole is baked and ready, there are so many fun ways to serve it! Here are a few ideas:
- Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up every bit of that cheesy goodness!
- Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions for added flavor.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time or storing leftovers. Here’s what you need to know:
- To make ahead, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- You can also freeze the casserole! Just assemble it, cover well, and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is sure to become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine. It’s comforting, easy to make, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy your cozy nights filled with delicious meals and cherished memories.
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
- Mix in rice, beef broth, and mushroom soup; season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to boil, then simmer 5 minutes.
- Transfer to baking dish, cover, and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil, top with cheese, and bake uncovered 10-15 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.