Cheesy Hamburger Rice Bake

This cheesy hamburger rice casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty and satisfying meal without too much fuss. The blend of ground beef, rice, and a creamy mushroom soup base topped with melty cheddar cheese makes it a comforting dish that everyone will love.

I threw this together late one evening when the fridge was bare except for a few basics. It quickly became my go-to dinner whenever I needed something cozy that didn’t require a lot of prep.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: brings rich protein and savory flavor to the dish. Choose fresh, lean beef to keep it juicy without excessive grease.
• Onion: adds sweetness and depth when sautéed. Pick firm onions with dry skins for the best results.
• Garlic: gives a subtle aromatic kick. Use fresh cloves& avoid pre-minced for more vivid flavor.
• Long-grain rice: holds its shape well during baking and soaks up the broth perfectly.
• Beef broth: adds umami, enhancing the meatiness of the casserole. Use a low sodium version if you want to control saltiness.
• Cream of mushroom soup: contributes creaminess and a comforting earthy undertone. Look for a brand with quality mushrooms and minimal additives.
• Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and adds sharp, gooey richness. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
• Salt: balances all flavors; black pepper adds a hint of warmth.
• Paprika: provides a mild smoky note that complements the beef& use sweet paprika for subtle flavor or smoked paprika for more intensity.
• Fresh parsley: brightens the dish and adds fresh herbaceous contrast on top.

Instructions

Cook The Meat Mixture:

In a large skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned and onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat carefully to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Combine Ingredients In Skillet:

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet along with the beef broth and cream of mushroom soup. Season the mixture with salt pepper and paprika. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat and let it simmer for five minutes hearing the rice begin to soften.

Prepare The Baking Dish And Bake Covered:

Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the dish and cover it tightly with foil to trap steam while baking.

Add Cheese And Finish Baking:

After twenty-five minutes in the oven remove the foil and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for another ten to fifteen minutes until the cheese is melted bubbly and lightly golden around the edges.

Garnish And Serve:

Before serving sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the casserole to add a fresh pop of color and flavor that cuts through the richness.

I love how the combination of creamy mushroom soup and paprika lifts this simple dinner into something memorable. Growing up watching my mom make similar casseroles I remember the whole family sitting together enjoying this comforting food after a long day.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven covered to keep moisture locked in. This casserole also freezes well & wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.

Ingredient swaps

Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter option. Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup in place of mushroom for different flavor profiles. Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder melt.

Serving ideas

Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. It pairs well with a glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer for casual dinners.

This casserole is sure to become a family favorite that brings both comfort and convenience to your table.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as alternatives, providing a lighter taste while maintaining the dish's heartiness.

→ What type of rice is best for this casserole?

Long-grain rice is ideal as it cooks evenly and absorbs the broth flavors without becoming mushy.

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or other favorites when cooking the beef mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.

→ Can I use different cheeses instead of cheddar?

Absolutely. Combining cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella creates a richer, creamier topping.

→ How do I ensure the cheese melts evenly on top?

Remove the foil cover in the final 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt fully and develop a golden, bubbly texture.