Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Easy Comfort Dish

Name: Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; to taste salt and pepper; for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

November 28, 2025April 30, 2025 by Ava

If you’re craving an easy comfort dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ll love this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole! With simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, and melty cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy nights. I’ll guide you through every step, from prepping to baking, so you can create this delicious meal with ease. Get ready to enjoy a cozy dinner that the whole family will rave about!

Why I Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a warm and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Easy to Make: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, this recipe is great for busy weeknights.
Cheesy Goodness: The melted cheddar cheese adds a delicious richness that everyone will love.
Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add your favorite veggies to make it your own!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1 cup long-grain white rice

– 2 cups beef broth

– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

These main ingredients form the heart of the dish. The ground beef gives it a rich flavor, while the rice provides texture. The beef broth adds moisture, and the diced tomatoes bring a hint of sweetness.

Vegetables and Seasonings

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

Adding these vegetables and seasonings brightens the casserole. The onion and garlic create a savory base, while the frozen vegetables add color and nutrients. Paprika and Italian seasoning enhance the overall taste, giving it depth.

Cheese and Garnish

– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cheddar cheese is the star here! It melts beautifully on top, making the dish gooey and delightful. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making the casserole more appealing to the eye.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Ingredients

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step gets your oven ready for baking.

2. Next, grab a large skillet. Heat it over medium heat. This is where the magic begins.

Cooking the Casserole Mixture

1. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Brown it until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

2. Now, add 1 medium diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in 1 cup of long-grain white rice. Cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.

4. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, 1 can of drained diced tomatoes, and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Season with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.

5. Mix everything well and bring it to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes. The rice should be tender and absorb most of the liquid.

Baking the Casserole

1. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends in.

2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese on top.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese on top.

Enjoy this cheesy delight that warms the heart!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Flavor

To enhance the flavor of your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, consider these tips:

– Seasoning Suggestions: Use salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of cayenne for some heat. You can also mix in some garlic powder for extra flavor.

– Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is the star, you can try mozzarella for a milder taste. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while gouda gives a smoky twist.

Cooking Methods

You can cook this casserole in different ways:

– Skillet vs. Oven Cooking: The skillet method lets you watch the rice cook. It also allows for easy stirring. The oven method gives a nice, bubbly top. Both ways yield a delicious dish.

– Alternative Cooking Methods: If you prefer slow cooking, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 4 hours. This method creates tender rice and deep flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your casserole with these ideas:

– Complementary Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Roasted vegetables also make a great side.

– Garnishing Ideas: Top with chopped parsley for color. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese before serving for added flavor.

Pro Tips

Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in your casserole, ensuring a healthier dish without compromising flavor.
Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to add more color and nutrition.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor, to personalize your casserole.
Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both options are leaner and still tasty. If you like rice, try different types like brown rice or jasmine rice. Each type gives a unique texture and flavor to the dish.

Vegetarian Option

If you want a vegetarian version, use beans or lentils instead of meat. These add protein and fiber. You can also mix in extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. This makes the casserole colorful and packed with nutrients.

Flavorful Additions

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the mix. The heat balances well with the cheesy goodness. You can also explore different herbs. Fresh basil, cilantro, or thyme can bring in a bright taste that lifts the dish.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

Store your leftovers in a tight container. This keeps them fresh longer. You can enjoy the casserole for up to four days in the fridge. Just make sure it cools down before sealing it up.

Freezing

For freezing, use an airtight container or freezer bags. This helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze the casserole for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Make sure it’s hot all the way through before serving.

Meal Prep Ideas

You can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it up to the baking step, then cover and chill. This is great for busy nights. For easy meals, portion the casserole into single servings. This way, you can grab a quick meal anytime. Just reheat as needed, and enjoy a comforting dish!

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time. This dish stores well in the fridge. To store, let it cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It can last in the fridge for up to three days.

When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven for about 20 minutes. If it feels dry, add a splash of broth. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.

How can I make the casserole spicier?

To spice up your casserole, consider adding some heat. You can mix in crushed red pepper flakes. These add a nice kick without being too hot. Another option is to add diced jalapeños. They bring a fresh flavor and some heat.

For even more depth, try adding cayenne pepper or chili powder. Start with a small amount, then taste it. You can always add more if you like it spicier.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you want to switch up the protein, there are many options. Ground turkey or ground chicken works well in this recipe. They have a milder flavor but still taste great.

For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or black beans. They add protein and texture. You can also use chopped mushrooms for a meaty feel. Just sauté them before mixing them in. Each option brings its own unique taste to the casserole.

This blog post covers a delicious cheesy hamburger rice casserole. You learned about key ingredients, from ground beef to shredded cheese, and how they come together. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for flavor, and fun variations for customization. Remember, you can make this dish your own! Consider different proteins or spices for unique tastes. Don’t forget the storage tips for leftovers. This meal is easy to prepare and great for sharin

$- 1 pound ground beef - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups beef broth - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained These main ingredients form the heart of the dish. The ground beef gives it a rich flavor, while the rice provides texture. The beef broth adds moisture, and the diced tomatoes bring a hint of sweetness. - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste Adding these vegetables and seasonings brightens the casserole. The onion and garlic create a savory base, while the frozen vegetables add color and nutrients. Paprika and Italian seasoning enhance the overall taste, giving it depth. - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Cheddar cheese is the star here! It melts beautifully on top, making the dish gooey and delightful. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making the casserole more appealing to the eye. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step gets your oven ready for baking. 2. Next, grab a large skillet. Heat it over medium heat. This is where the magic begins. 1. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Brown it until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. 2. Now, add 1 medium diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. 3. Stir in 1 cup of long-grain white rice. Cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice. 4. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, 1 can of drained diced tomatoes, and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Season with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. 5. Mix everything well and bring it to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes. The rice should be tender and absorb most of the liquid. 1. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends in. 2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese on top. 3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese on top. Enjoy this cheesy delight that warms the heart! To enhance the flavor of your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, consider these tips: - Seasoning Suggestions: Use salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of cayenne for some heat. You can also mix in some garlic powder for extra flavor. - Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is the star, you can try mozzarella for a milder taste. Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while gouda gives a smoky twist. You can cook this casserole in different ways: - Skillet vs. Oven Cooking: The skillet method lets you watch the rice cook. It also allows for easy stirring. The oven method gives a nice, bubbly top. Both ways yield a delicious dish. - Alternative Cooking Methods: If you prefer slow cooking, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 4 hours. This method creates tender rice and deep flavors. Pair your casserole with these ideas: - Complementary Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. Roasted vegetables also make a great side. - Garnishing Ideas: Top with chopped parsley for color. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese before serving for added flavor. Pro Tips Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in your casserole, ensuring a healthier dish without compromising flavor. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to add more color and nutrition. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor, to personalize your casserole. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve! {{image_2}} You can switch out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Both options are leaner and still tasty. If you like rice, try different types like brown rice or jasmine rice. Each type gives a unique texture and flavor to the dish. If you want a vegetarian version, use beans or lentils instead of meat. These add protein and fiber. You can also mix in extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. This makes the casserole colorful and packed with nutrients. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the mix. The heat balances well with the cheesy goodness. You can also explore different herbs. Fresh basil, cilantro, or thyme can bring in a bright taste that lifts the dish. Store your leftovers in a tight container. This keeps them fresh longer. You can enjoy the casserole for up to four days in the fridge. Just make sure it cools down before sealing it up. For freezing, use an airtight container or freezer bags. This helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze the casserole for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Make sure it’s hot all the way through before serving. You can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it up to the baking step, then cover and chill. This is great for busy nights. For easy meals, portion the casserole into single servings. This way, you can grab a quick meal anytime. Just reheat as needed, and enjoy a comforting dish! Yes, you can make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time. This dish stores well in the fridge. To store, let it cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It can last in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, you can reheat it. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven for about 20 minutes. If it feels dry, add a splash of broth. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal. To spice up your casserole, consider adding some heat. You can mix in crushed red pepper flakes. These add a nice kick without being too hot. Another option is to add diced jalapeños. They bring a fresh flavor and some heat. For even more depth, try adding cayenne pepper or chili powder. Start with a small amount, then taste it. You can always add more if you like it spicier. If you want to switch up the protein, there are many options. Ground turkey or ground chicken works well in this recipe. They have a milder flavor but still taste great. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or black beans. They add protein and texture. You can also use chopped mushrooms for a meaty feel. Just sauté them before mixing them in. Each option brings its own unique taste to the casserole. This blog post covers a delicious cheesy hamburger rice casserole. You learned about key ingredients, from ground beef to shredded cheese, and how they come together. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for flavor, and fun variations for customization. Remember, you can make this dish your own! Consider different proteins or spices for unique tastes. Don’t forget the storage tips for leftovers. This meal is easy to prepare and great for sharing!$