Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

When you’re looking for an easy, hearty dinner that brings everyone to the table, this cheesy hamburger rice casserole is the perfect choice.

Made with savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, tender rice, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s a complete meal baked to perfection.

Whether you’re feeding a busy family or preparing for leftovers, this casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Quick and Easy: Simple steps and common ingredients make this dish easy to prepare, even on busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Combining protein, starch, and vegetables, it’s a satisfying all-in-one meal.
• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s everything you want in a casserole!

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

For this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

Serves: 6

• 1 lb. ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base for the casserole.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Adds aromatic flavor to the beef.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
• 3.5 tablespoons butter, divided: For sautéing and flavor enhancement.
• 1 cup onions, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1.5 tablespoons garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory note.
• 3 cups beef broth: Cooks the rice and adds richness.
• 1 cup uncooked white long-grain rice (not instant): The base of the casserole, absorbing all the savory flavors.
• 7 oz. button mushrooms, sliced and washed: Adds earthy flavor and texture.
• 11 oz. cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy, cohesive sauce.
• ½ cup milk (any kind): Lightens and smooths the sauce.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess.
• 2.5 cups cheddar cheese, divided: The star ingredient, providing melty, cheesy goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Once melted, add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Cook, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 7-8 minutes).
4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked beef to a plate, leaving the fat in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and become slightly golden.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Pour the beef broth into the skillet with the onions and mushrooms. Bring to a boil.
2. Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the liquid.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the rice mixture.
3. Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is creamy and well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the beef and rice mixture. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
2. Sprinkle the remaining 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
3. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. For a golden, crispy topping, broil on high for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Tips for Success

• Prevent Mushy Rice: Use long-grain rice and avoid stirring excessively during cooking to maintain a fluffy texture.
• Cheese Lovers: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• Enhance Flavor: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the beef mixture for added depth.
• Vegetable Boost: Include diced bell peppers or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a rich, hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a complete meal everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re looking to add freshness, crunch, or additional textures, here are some serving ideas to complement this casserole:

• Fresh Green Salad
  A crisp green salad is a classic pairing for rich casseroles. Toss together mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the cheesy and creamy casserole. Adding toppings like crumbled feta or sliced almonds can provide extra texture and flavor.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
  Balance the meal with nutritious veggies. Steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots are quick and easy options that provide a pop of color and a hint of sweetness. For more flavor, roast veggies like Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls
  For those who love a comforting carb-on-carb combination, serve the casserole with warm garlic bread or fluffy dinner rolls. These are perfect for soaking up every bit of the creamy sauce. Low-carb options, like keto bread or cauliflower breadsticks, can also work for those watching their carb intake.
• Pickled or Tangy Sides
  Add a tangy element to the meal with pickled vegetables, such as pickled onions, cucumbers, or even a few dill pickles. The acidity cuts through the richness of the dish and brings a bright flavor to the plate.

• Roasted Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes
  If you’re feeding a crowd and want to stretch the meal, consider serving the casserole with roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes. Season with herbs like rosemary or thyme to complement the dish’s flavors.
• Soup Starter
  For a cozy dinner, serve a small bowl of soup, such as tomato basil or a light vegetable broth, as a starter. This adds an extra layer of comfort to the meal and pairs wonderfully with the casserole.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the casserole in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Why This Recipe Works

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole combines the comforting flavors of beef, mushrooms, and cheese with the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked rice. It’s versatile, easy to customize with different vegetables or seasonings, and delivers a rich, cheesy bite every time. Make it tonight for a comforting family dinner that everyone will love!