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Hamburger Rice Casserole
Hamburger Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty meal perfect for family dinners. Enjoy easy layers of seasoned beef, rice, and melted cheese in every bite!
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This Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comfort food classic that’s both hearty and delicious! Packed with seasoned ground beef, rice, and melted cheese, it’s the ultimate meal for busy nights. Kids and adults alike will love every creamy, savory bite. Make it for an easy, filling dinner that’s sure to be a hit!
Follow the simple guide below to make this tasty casserole at home! Step-by-step photos and directions make it foolproof, and our pro tips and tricks help you get perfect results every time. Plus, check out the FAQ section for answers to common questions about the recipe.
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This Hamburger Rice Casserole is a quick, tasty meal perfect for weeknights or casual family dinners. Ready in under an hour, it combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese in every delicious bite. Its creamy, hearty layers make it ideal for potlucks, game nights, or when you need comforting flavors fast. Make it once, and it’ll become a go-to recipe your whole family will crave!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Hamburger Rice Casserole recipe:
- 1 pound of lean ground beef (I used a 90-10% blend)
- 1 packet (from a 2.2-ounce box) of Lipton Beefy Onion Soup Mix
- 2 (10.5-ounce) cans of cream of mushroom soup
- 4-ounce can of sliced mushrooms, drained
- 2 cups of beef broth
- ¾ cup of whole milk
- ¾ cup of sour cream
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of Minute Rice white rice
- 8-ounce block of Colby jack cheese, shredded
- 1½ tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Hamburger Rice Casserole recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding tasty extras! These simple changes make it uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Substitute Cheese: Try sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a new cheesy experience in each bite.
Substitute Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist in your Hamburger Rice Casserole.
Use White Rice: Swap in brown rice or cauliflower rice for extra fiber and a different flavor.
Add Vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Add Spice: Add chili powder or taco seasoning for a bolder, Southwest-inspired taste in your casserole.
How to Make Hamburger Rice Casserole
Follow along with our pictures and step-by-step instructions to make this tasty Hamburger Rice Casserole. Check out the tips and tricks below to get perfect results every time. Let’s get started and bring this delicious dish to life!
Pro Tip
You can cook a large batch of ground beef ahead of time and store it in one-pound portions in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw the cooked ground beef in the refrigerator for 6 to 12 hours before using it in quick weeknight meal preparations like this hamburger casserole with rice.
STEP ONE: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
STEP TWO: In a medium skillet on medium-high heat, brown ground beef for five to seven minutes, or until no pink remains.
Drain off the excess fat that was rendered from cooking.
STEP THREE: Add the browned and drained ground beef, a packet of beefy onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, mushrooms, beef broth, whole milk, sour cream, salt, and black pepper to a large bowl.
Stir to combine.
STEP FOUR: Stir in the minute rice and spread the ground beef mixture into the prepared baking dish.
STEP FIVE: Top the hamburger rice casserole with the shredded Colby jack cheese.
STEP SIX: Tightly cover the casserole dish with a large piece of aluminum foil.
Pro Tip
To keep your cheese from sticking to the aluminum foil while your casserole bakes, lightly spray the aluminum foil (the side facing the cheese) with nonstick cooking spray before covering your baking dish.
STEP SEVEN: Bake for 45 minutes.
Uncover the casserole and place it under the broiler for two to three minutes or just until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly.
Be sure to keep a close eye on the cheese so that it doesn’t burn while under the broiler.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your casserole as the suggested cook time approaches.
STEP EIGHT: Allow the hamburger rice casserole to cool for five minutes before garnishing it with fresh chopped parsley and serving.
How To Serve Hamburger Rice Casserole
This Hamburger Rice Casserole makes a perfect dish for all ages and occasions, adding comfort and flavor to any table. Here are some great ways to serve this crowd-pleaser:
- Family Dinners: This casserole is a hit with kids and adults, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners. Pair it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete, hearty meal.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: With its creamy, cheesy layers, this casserole shines at potlucks or casual parties. Serve alongside deviled eggs and a veggie platter to impress guests with an effortless spread.
- Fall and Winter Comfort: Serve this warm, filling casserole during colder months for cozy family meals or small holiday gatherings. Enjoy it with sautéed vegetables and homemade cornbread for a comforting, seasonal feast.
Why You'll Love This Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe
Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting favorite for our readers, thanks to its flavor, versatility, and ease in preparation.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This recipe brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty beef and rice, perfect for cozy family meals. Every bite combines flavors and textures that satisfy, making it an instant hit.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: With its mild flavors and creamy layers, this casserole pleases all ages, from picky eaters to adults. It’s easy to customize with favorite toppings and is sure to become a family staple.
- Effortless Weeknight Hero: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is ideal for busy nights or meal preps. The simple ingredients come together fast, making dinnertime stress-free and delicious.
Hamburger Rice Casserole isn’t just a dish—it’s a classic, feel-good meal that brings smiles to every table. Enjoy!
Recipe FAQ
Can I make Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it earlier in the day, then bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it perfect for busy nights or prepping for a crowd.
What kind of cheese works best in this casserole?
Cheddar cheese is popular for its rich flavor, but you can also use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
How do I keep my casserole from drying out?
Make sure to cover it tightly with foil when baking, which helps lock in moisture and keeps it creamy.
Can I use instant rice for Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Yes, instant rice works well here. Just adjust the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking the casserole.
Serving FAQ
What size servings should I plan for with Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Typically, one 9x13 casserole serves six to eight people, making it great for family dinners or small gatherings.
Can I serve Hamburger Rice Casserole as a main course?
Yes! With hearty ingredients like ground beef, rice, and cheese, it’s a filling main dish for any meal.
Should I let the casserole rest before serving?
Letting it rest for five to ten minutes helps it set and makes serving easier, keeping layers intact.
How do I keep the casserole warm for serving?
Cover it with foil and keep it in a warm oven (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for storing your Hamburger Rice Casserole. From making ahead to reheating, we cover everything you need for best results.
Can I prepare Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance. Cover and refrigerate for up to a day, then bake when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to store leftover Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days.
Is it possible to freeze Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the casserole tightly, then freeze for up to two months for future meals.
How should I reheat Hamburger Rice Casserole after freezing?
Thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about twenty to thirty minutes.
Can I reheat Hamburger Rice Casserole in the microwave?
Yes, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid uneven heating and keep it creamy.
Hamburger Rice Casserole
Hamburger Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty meal perfect for family dinners. Enjoy easy layers of seasoned beef, rice, and melted cheese in every bite!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (I used a 90-10% blend)
- 2.2 ounces Lipton Beefy Onion Soup Mix
- 21 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 4 ounces sliced mushrooms (drained)
- 2 cups beef broth
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups Minute Rice white rice
- 8 ounces Colby jack cheese (shredded)
- 1½ tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped (optional garnish))
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium skillet on medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef for 5 to 7 minutes or until no pink remains. Drain off the excess fat that was rendered from cooking.
- To a large mixing bowl, add the browned and drained lean ground beef, packet of beefy onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, sliced mushrooms, beef broth, whole milk, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Stir in the minute rice and spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Top the hamburger rice casserole with the shredded Colby jack cheese.
- Tightly cover the casserole dish with a large piece of aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes. Uncover the hamburger rice casserole and place it under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes or just until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly. Be sure to keep a close eye on the cheese so that it doesn’t burn while under the broiler.
- Allow the hamburger rice casserole to cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley and serving.
Notes
You can cook a large batch of ground beef ahead of time and store it in one-pound portions in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw the cooked ground beef in the refrigerator for 6 to 12 hours before using it in quick weeknight meal preparations like this hamburger casserole with rice.
To keep your cheese from sticking to the aluminum foil while your casserole bakes, lightly spray the aluminum foil (the side facing the cheese) with nonstick cooking spray before covering your baking dish.
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your casserole as the suggested cook time approaches.
To keep your cheese from sticking to the aluminum foil while your casserole bakes, lightly spray the aluminum foil (the side facing the cheese) with nonstick cooking spray before covering your baking dish.
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your casserole as the suggested cook time approaches.
Nutrition
Calories: 377kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 1773mg | Potassium: 533mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 439IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 279mg | Iron: 4mg
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Comments
Patti Uplinger says
Do u cook rice first? Going to try this sounds super good.
Layne Henderson says
Hi, Patti - no, you don't need to cook the rice first. Enjoy!