Heartwarming Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort food takes on a whole new meaning with this cheesy hamburger rice casserole that promises to satisfy even the most demanding appetites.

Warm, gooey cheese blankets perfectly seasoned ground beef and fluffy rice in a dish that screams home-cooked goodness.

Weeknight dinners just got easier with this simple yet incredibly delicious one-pan wonder.

Each forkful delivers a delightful combination of savory meat, tender rice, and melted cheese that feels like a warm hug.

Busy families will appreciate how quickly this meal comes together without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly to create a crowd-pleasing dinner that disappears faster than you can say “seconds, please!” You won’t believe how something so easy can taste this incredible – dig in and see for yourself.

Cooking Instructions for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F (175C) and get ready for a comfort food adventure.

Step 2: Sizzle the Meat

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic

Cook until the meat is perfectly browned and the kitchen smells amazing.

Step 3: Create the Flavor Fusion

• Cooked rice
• Beef broth
• Tomato sauce
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika

Stir everything together until well mixed and the flavors start to mingle.

Step 4: Prepare for Cheesy Greatness

Pour the meaty rice mixture into a casserole dish and shower it with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes.

Watch for the cheese to transform into a golden, bubbly blanket of deliciousness.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Pull the casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes.

This quick rest helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.

Scoop out generous portions and enjoy your ultimate comfort meal!

Pro Tips for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• After browning beef, remove extra grease to prevent a soggy casserole and reduce calories.
• Use long-grain white rice or day-old rice for better texture and less moisture in the dish.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of dried herbs like thyme to enhance the overall taste profile.
• Mix some cheese into the casserole and sprinkle remaining cheese on top for maximum cheesy goodness.
• Ensure beef broth and tomato sauce are gluten-free certified for those with dietary restrictions.

Variations on Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a wheat-free alternative that maintains the hearty texture and flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Swap: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans, using vegetable broth instead of beef broth to create a protein-packed meatless casserole.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice as a base and swap tomato sauce with diced fresh tomatoes, reducing overall carbohydrate content while keeping the cheesy, savory essence.
• Spicy Mexican Remix: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to give the casserole a zesty southwestern kick.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Family Feast Fixer: Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, cheesy flavors and add some fresh nutrition.
• Game Night Champion: Pair with crunchy tortilla chips or garlic bread for extra texture and a satisfying side that complements the main dish.
• Veggie Boost Buddy: Top with chopped fresh parsley, diced green onions, or sliced cherry tomatoes to brighten the presentation and add a pop of color and freshness.
• Protein Power-Up: Offer sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for guests who want an extra creamy element and additional protein boost.

Storage Tips for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer casserole to freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Cover casserole with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely through, adding a splash of beef broth if mixture seems dry.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works perfectly in this casserole and provides a similar flavor profile.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this casserole reheats wonderfully and can be made ahead of time. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

• What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, but you can also use brown rice for added nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked.

• How can I make this dish more spicy?

Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture before baking. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick.

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Overview

• Satisfy Hungry Crowds Instantly: Packed with hearty ground beef, rice, and melted cheese, this dish delivers maximum flavor and comfort in every bite.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like ground turkey, add extra vegetables, or experiment with different cheese types to match your family's taste preferences.
• Quick Weeknight Meal Solution: Minimal prep work and straightforward cooking steps mean you can have a delicious dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that forms the main protein of the casserole.
• Onions, Garlic: Add depth and aromatic flavor to the beef base.

• Rice: A fluffy and filling grain that provides the foundational texture of the casserole.
• Beef Broth: Adds moisture and rich, savory flavor to the dish.
• Tomato Sauce: Brings a tangy and slightly sweet element to the casserole.

• Salt, Pepper, Paprika: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: A melty, sharp cheese that creates a golden, gooey topping for the casserole.

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets convenience in this hearty cheesy hamburger rice casserole, blending ground beef, melted cheese, and fluffy rice into one satisfying dish. Families will savor each creamy, flavorful bite of this simple yet delicious midweek meal you can prepare quickly with minimal ingredients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup rice
• 1 cup cheddar cheese

Aromatics:

• 1 onion
• 2 cloves garlic

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. In a large skillet, sauté ground beef with finely chopped onions and minced garlic until meat is thoroughly browned and onions are translucent.
3. Incorporate cooked rice into the meat mixture, stirring carefully to distribute ingredients evenly.
4. Pour beef broth and tomato sauce into the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor profile.
5. Carefully transfer the combined mixture to a prepared casserole dish, ensuring an even distribution.
6. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole, creating a complete cheese coverage.
7. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for the cheese to melt completely and develop a golden, bubbly surface.
8. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes, which helps the ingredients settle and makes serving easier.
9. Serve warm, scooping out portions that showcase the melted cheese and hearty beef and rice combination.

Notes

• Customize protein by swapping ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for different dietary needs.
• Create a low-carb version by replacing rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for fewer calories.
• Enhance nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost vegetable content and flavor complexity.
• Prepare this dish ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking, making meal prep easier for busy families.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg