Introduction
Hamburger Rice Casserole is the kind of comforting, no-fuss dinner that brings warmth to the table with minimal effort. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy sauce baked together into one satisfying dish, it is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe combines simple pantry staples into a meal that feels hearty and filling without being complicated.
The first time I prepared this casserole, I was looking for something affordable and practical that still delivered flavor. I was surprised by how the rice absorbed all the savory goodness from the beef and sauce as it baked. I once added a handful of shredded cheddar on top during the last few minutes, and it created a beautifully golden crust. Whether served on its own or with a simple side salad, this Hamburger Rice Casserole is a dependable comfort food classic.
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Classic Hamburger Rice Casserole: Hearty, Creamy, and Comforting
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Hearty and comforting hamburger rice casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add ground beef and garlic, cooking until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and milk.
- Add cooked beef mixture and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the dish is tightly covered so the rice cooks properly.
- Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken if preferred.
- Add frozen peas or mixed vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is simple, budget-friendly, and satisfying. It uses everyday ingredients and requires minimal preparation. Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup easy. The flavors are familiar and comforting, and the recipe can easily be customized with vegetables, different cheeses, or additional seasonings to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Main Components
ground beef
Lean ground beef provides hearty flavor and protein. Drain excess fat after browning to avoid a greasy casserole.
long-grain white rice
Uncooked rice bakes directly in the casserole, absorbing the flavorful liquid as it cooks.
onion
Finely chopped onion adds depth and savory sweetness.
garlic
Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
cream of mushroom soup
Creates a creamy base and helps bind the casserole together.
beef broth
Adds moisture and intensifies the savory flavor of the dish.
milk
Contributes additional creaminess and balances the richness.
salt
Enhances all the ingredients and brings the flavors together.
black pepper
Adds subtle warmth and seasoning balance.
paprika
Provides mild smoky undertones and a touch of color.
shredded cheddar cheese
Optional topping that melts into a golden, bubbly finish.
fresh parsley
Optional garnish for color and freshness.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and milk. Stir until well blended. Add the cooked beef mixture, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top if using. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Equipment needed : Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
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 serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 325°F oven until heated through. Add a small splash of broth or milk if needed to maintain moisture.
Variations and Customizations
Hamburger Rice Casserole is highly adaptable. For added nutrition, stir in vegetables such as peas, diced carrots, or chopped bell peppers before baking. I once added sliced mushrooms to the beef mixture, and they enhanced the savory flavor beautifully.
For a different flavor profile, substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. You can also season the beef with Italian seasoning or taco seasoning for a twist.
If you prefer brown rice, note that it requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid. For a lighter option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
Cheese lovers can experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a richer topping. A sprinkle of crushed crackers on top before baking can also add a pleasant crunch.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Below is the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands used.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cover Tightly
Sealing the dish with foil ensures the rice cooks properly and absorbs the liquid.
Drain the Beef Well
Removing excess fat prevents the casserole from becoming greasy.
Let It Rest
Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps it firm up for easier serving.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt or spices as needed.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Why is my rice undercooked?
Ensure the casserole is tightly covered and that enough liquid is included.
Can I use instant rice?
Instant rice is not recommended, as it may become overly soft during baking.
What side dishes pair well?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement this casserole nicely.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Hamburger Rice Casserole is a timeless comfort dish that combines hearty ground beef, tender rice, and creamy sauce into one satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it is a practical and flavorful addition to any weekly dinner rotation. This recipe proves that simple ingredients can create a meal that is both nourishing and deeply comforting.
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