Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

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If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, let me introduce you to the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. This dish combines the savory goodness of browned ground beef, the satisfying texture of tender rice, and the melty magic of mozzarella cheese all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the kind of recipe that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet comforting enough to become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role from adding moisture, richness, or that irresistible cheesy top that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that delivers savory flavor and protein.
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup: Adds creamy richness and a touch of earthiness.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice: Brings acidity and moisture, balancing the richness with a fresh tomato tang.
• ½ cup long grain white rice: Absorbs all those delicious flavors while giving the dish satisfying texture.
• ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, golden, and melty top layer that’s pure comfort.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together perfectly.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by crumbling your ground beef into a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir until it’s evenly browned and no longer pink, releasing all those savory juices. The browning step builds a deep meaty flavor that forms the foundation of your casserole.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily. Then stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the uncooked rice. This mixture will gently simmer, allowing the rice to soak up all those rich and tangy flavors.

Step 3: Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Cover the skillet and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and cooked through, which usually takes about 15 minutes. This slow cooking step is key because it lets the rice absorb the tomatoey broth and creamy mushroom soup, resulting in a tender, flavorful bed for your cheesy topping.

Step 4: Prepare for Broiling

Preheat your oven’s broiler while the rice finishes cooking so it’s ready for the final touch. Once the rice mixture is done, transfer it carefully into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Finish

Top the rice and beef mixture with the shredded mozzarella cheese, covering it with a generous layer that will melt into ooey-gooey goodness once broiled. Place the casserole under the broiler, keeping a close eye, until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and toasty—this final step adds irresistible texture and flavor.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole warm for a satisfying meal that feels both familiar and special at the same time.

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy base. You can also add a light scattering of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick if you love some heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even a simple garlic bread for sopping up any extra sauce left on the plate. These sides add freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy texture perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You could also spread the mixture in a muffin tin for handheld casserole “muffins”—perfect for potlucks or packed lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole holds up well for about 3 to 4 days, making it a great make-ahead meal to enjoy later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of this casserole in freezer-safe containers or wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave until heated through, or warm a larger portion in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep it moist. For extra melty cheese, uncover in the last few minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?

Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully and provides a mild flavor, you can experiment with cheddar for sharpness or a mix of cheeses for complexity. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well.

Is it necessary to use cream of mushroom soup?

The cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and a subtle earthy flavor, but you can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer. For a homemade touch, a simple béchamel sauce seasoned with mushroom broth works too.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative or diced mushrooms sautéed until golden to keep it hearty and flavorful without meat.

Is the rice fully cooked before baking?

The rice simmers with the beef, soup, and tomatoes until nearly cooked before transferring to the casserole dish. This helps ensure the rice is tender after baking and not too dry.

How spicy is the casserole?

This dish is naturally mild and comforting, but you can easily add spices or hot sauce to the beef mixture if you like a little heat to balance the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. It blends straightforward ingredients into a deeply satisfying dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Give it a try soon—you might just find it becoming your new go-to for easy, crowd-pleasing dinners that warm the soul and please every palate.

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