Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Tasty Comfort Meal

Name: Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon paprika; to taste salt and pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; optional fresh parsley for garnish

October 8, 2025October 16, 2024 by Lily

Are you in search of the perfect comfort meal? Look no further! My Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a one-pan wonder that delivers rich flavors and simple steps. With ground beef, rice, and creamy cheddar, it’s a family favorite that warms hearts and fills bellies. Join me as we whip up this easy, tasty dish that’s perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out!

Why I Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining beef, cheese, and rice for a filling meal.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: You can easily swap out the vegetables or cheese to suit your family’s preferences.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef

– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice

– 2 cups beef broth

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

To make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, gather your ingredients first. You need ground beef for flavor and protein. The uncooked long-grain rice will absorb the juices while cooking. Beef broth adds depth to the dish.

Cheddar cheese makes it gooey and rich, while the mixed vegetables add color and nutrients. Chopped onion and minced garlic bring great aroma and taste. Worcestershire sauce enhances the flavor profile. Paprika gives a nice hint of smokiness.

Finally, have salt and pepper ready to season your dish. Olive oil is key for sautéing. If you like, add fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.

Recommended Tools and Equipment

– Large skillet

– Mixing bowl

– 9×13 inch baking dish

– Aluminum foil

Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A large skillet is perfect for browning the beef and softening the onion. Use a mixing bowl to combine your rice, broth, and other ingredients.

The 9×13 inch baking dish holds everything for baking. Aluminum foil is important for covering the dish, keeping moisture in. With these tools, you’re ready to create a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Gather your ingredients. You will need ground beef, rice, beef broth, cheese, veggies, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften.

Cooking Steps

1. Increase the heat to medium-high.

2. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart. This takes about 5-7 minutes.

3. Drain any excess grease from the beef. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of uncooked rice and 2 cups of beef broth.

5. Stir in 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables and the cooked beef mixture. Mix until everything is fully combined.

Baking Steps

1. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

4. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.

5. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden.

6. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

This dish is warm and filling, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To get perfect rice in your casserole, use long-grain rice. It cooks well and stays fluffy. Make sure to measure the rice and broth correctly. The right ratio helps the rice absorb all the flavors.

To adjust the seasoning for your taste, start with the basic salt and pepper. You can add more Worcestershire sauce for depth. If you enjoy heat, a pinch of cayenne or chili powder works great. Always taste before serving!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your casserole with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a heartier meal.

Garnishing with fresh parsley gives your dish a nice pop of color. It also adds a hint of freshness that brightens the flavors. Just chop it finely and sprinkle it on top before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice is undercooked, don’t worry! You can add a splash of broth or water and cover it. Return it to the oven for another 10 minutes. This helps the rice finish cooking properly.

For excess grease, drain the beef after browning it. This step removes most of the fat. If you find it greasy after baking, use a spoon to skim off the extra fat before serving.

Pro Tips

Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the casserole lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding your favorite spices or herbs, such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper, to elevate the flavor profile of the dish.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a unique twist on the classic cheddar topping.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out ground beef for other meats. Try ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Each option brings a new taste. If you want a meatless meal, use lentils or mushrooms for texture.

Cheese is key in this dish. While cheddar is a classic, you can use mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite mix.

Dietary Adjustments

To make the dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free rice or broth. Many brands offer these options. Check labels to ensure they meet your needs.

For a vegetarian version, skip the meat. Use extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Add plant-based cheese for creaminess. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal.

Flavor Enhancements

Spices and herbs can change the flavor. Try adding cumin or chili powder for warmth. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the taste.

You can also add more veggies. Consider spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. They add color and nutrition. Just chop them small so they blend well in the casserole.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

Store your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Make sure to cool it down before putting it in the fridge. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. For best results, eat refrigerated leftovers within three to four days.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you have two great options. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until hot throughout. For the microwave, put a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway for even heating. Make sure it’s hot before serving.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, the casserole lasts about three to four days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. Just make sure to label your container with the date. This helps you keep track of how long it’s been stored.

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Just cook everything, then cover and chill it. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge. You may need to increase the baking time a bit.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

To keep the rice firm, use long-grain rice. Make sure to measure the beef broth correctly. Avoid overcooking the casserole in the oven. Cover it only for part of the baking to allow steam to escape.

Nutritional Information

Calories and macronutrient breakdown per serving

This casserole has about 400 calories per serving. It includes around 20 grams of protein and 30 grams of carbs. The cheese adds healthy fats too, making it a balanced meal.

Healthier ingredient options

You can use lean ground turkey instead of beef for fewer calories. Swap white rice for brown rice for added fiber. Choose low-fat cheese to cut back on fat without losing flavor.

Cooking for a Crowd

Scaling the recipe up or down

To serve more people, just double the ingredients. If you need less, cut everything in half. The cooking time will stay about the same, but check for doneness.

Cooking times for larger batches

For larger casseroles, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes. Always check the rice for doneness. If it’s not done, cover it and bake a little longer.

This blog post covered a delicious and easy Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. We shared the ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions to make it. Helpful tips ensured your dish comes out just right. Also, we discussed variations to suit different diets and preferences. Finally, storing and reheating tips help you enjoy leftovers later.

Cooking should be fun and rewarding. With this recipe, you can share a meal everyone will love. Enjoy your cookin

$- 1 lb ground beef - 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice - 2 cups beef broth - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn) - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish To make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, gather your ingredients first. You need ground beef for flavor and protein. The uncooked long-grain rice will absorb the juices while cooking. Beef broth adds depth to the dish. Cheddar cheese makes it gooey and rich, while the mixed vegetables add color and nutrients. Chopped onion and minced garlic bring great aroma and taste. Worcestershire sauce enhances the flavor profile. Paprika gives a nice hint of smokiness. Finally, have salt and pepper ready to season your dish. Olive oil is key for sautéing. If you like, add fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. - Large skillet - Mixing bowl - 9x13 inch baking dish - Aluminum foil Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A large skillet is perfect for browning the beef and softening the onion. Use a mixing bowl to combine your rice, broth, and other ingredients. The 9x13 inch baking dish holds everything for baking. Aluminum foil is important for covering the dish, keeping moisture in. With these tools, you're ready to create a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Gather your ingredients. You will need ground beef, rice, beef broth, cheese, veggies, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. 3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften. 1. Increase the heat to medium-high. 2. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart. This takes about 5-7 minutes. 3. Drain any excess grease from the beef. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat. 4. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of uncooked rice and 2 cups of beef broth. 5. Stir in 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables and the cooked beef mixture. Mix until everything is fully combined. 1. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. 2. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. 3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. 4. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. 5. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden. 6. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish is warm and filling, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. To get perfect rice in your casserole, use long-grain rice. It cooks well and stays fluffy. Make sure to measure the rice and broth correctly. The right ratio helps the rice absorb all the flavors. To adjust the seasoning for your taste, start with the basic salt and pepper. You can add more Worcestershire sauce for depth. If you enjoy heat, a pinch of cayenne or chili powder works great. Always taste before serving! Pair your casserole with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad adds crunch and freshness. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a heartier meal. Garnishing with fresh parsley gives your dish a nice pop of color. It also adds a hint of freshness that brightens the flavors. Just chop it finely and sprinkle it on top before serving. If your rice is undercooked, don’t worry! You can add a splash of broth or water and cover it. Return it to the oven for another 10 minutes. This helps the rice finish cooking properly. For excess grease, drain the beef after browning it. This step removes most of the fat. If you find it greasy after baking, use a spoon to skim off the extra fat before serving. Pro Tips Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the casserole lighter without sacrificing flavor. Flavor Boost: Consider adding your favorite spices or herbs, such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper, to elevate the flavor profile of the dish. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a unique twist on the classic cheddar topping. Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier. {{image_2}} You can swap out ground beef for other meats. Try ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Each option brings a new taste. If you want a meatless meal, use lentils or mushrooms for texture. Cheese is key in this dish. While cheddar is a classic, you can use mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite mix. To make the dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free rice or broth. Many brands offer these options. Check labels to ensure they meet your needs. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat. Use extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Add plant-based cheese for creaminess. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal. Spices and herbs can change the flavor. Try adding cumin or chili powder for warmth. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the taste. You can also add more veggies. Consider spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. They add color and nutrition. Just chop them small so they blend well in the casserole. Store your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. Make sure to cool it down before putting it in the fridge. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. For best results, eat refrigerated leftovers within three to four days. To reheat, you have two great options. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until hot throughout. For the microwave, put a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway for even heating. Make sure it's hot before serving. In the fridge, the casserole lasts about three to four days. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months. Just make sure to label your container with the date. This helps you keep track of how long it's been stored. Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Just cook everything, then cover and chill it. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge. You may need to increase the baking time a bit. How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy? To keep the rice firm, use long-grain rice. Make sure to measure the beef broth correctly. Avoid overcooking the casserole in the oven. Cover it only for part of the baking to allow steam to escape. Calories and macronutrient breakdown per serving This casserole has about 400 calories per serving. It includes around 20 grams of protein and 30 grams of carbs. The cheese adds healthy fats too, making it a balanced meal. Healthier ingredient options You can use lean ground turkey instead of beef for fewer calories. Swap white rice for brown rice for added fiber. Choose low-fat cheese to cut back on fat without losing flavor. Scaling the recipe up or down To serve more people, just double the ingredients. If you need less, cut everything in half. The cooking time will stay about the same, but check for doneness. Cooking times for larger batches For larger casseroles, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes. Always check the rice for doneness. If it’s not done, cover it and bake a little longer. This blog post covered a delicious and easy Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. We shared the ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions to make it. Helpful tips ensured your dish comes out just right. Also, we discussed variations to suit different diets and preferences. Finally, storing and reheating tips help you enjoy leftovers later. Cooking should be fun and rewarding. With this recipe, you can share a meal everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking!$