Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

Looking for an easy, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love? This Hamburger Rice Casserole recipe is exactly what you need! It's a one-dish meal that's packed with ground beef, tender rice, and flavorful seasonings, all baked together to create a hearty and delicious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this casserole is sure to become a go-to dish in your household. Keep reading to learn how to make this crowd-pleasing casserole with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!

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What is Hamburger Rice Casserole?

Hamburger Rice Casserole is a classic American dish that combines ground beef (also known as hamburger), rice, and a variety of other ingredients like vegetables, seasonings, and sometimes cheese or cream-based soups. It’s a perfect example of comfort food—warm, filling, and easy to prepare. This casserole can be customized with different vegetables, flavors, and seasonings, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Rice Casserole

Here’s a simple ingredient list for making this delicious Hamburger Rice Casserole. The ingredients are easy to find and the dish is quick to assemble, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Main Ingredients:

1. Ground beef (1 lb): The key protein in the dish. You can use lean or extra-lean ground beef to reduce fat.
2. Uncooked rice (1 cup): White or brown rice both work well. Brown rice will add more fiber, while white rice will cook a bit faster.
3. Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds flavor and texture to the casserole.
4. Bell pepper (1 large, chopped): Green, red, or yellow bell peppers all work well.
5. Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall flavor.
6. Beef broth (2 cups): Adds moisture and a rich beefy flavor to the dish.
7. Canned diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
8. Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Adds creaminess and richness to the casserole.
9. Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): A must for a cheesy, indulgent top layer.
10. Salt and pepper (to taste): Season to your liking.
11. Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used to sauté the vegetables and brown the meat.

Optional Ingredients:

• Frozen peas (½ cup): Add a pop of color and additional nutrients.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Adds depth of flavor.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a little heat and smokiness.
• Soy sauce (1 tbsp): Boosts the umami flavor of the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

Hamburger Rice Casserole is very flexible, so feel free to tweak the recipe based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Meat Variations: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for ground beef to change up the flavor profile. Vegetarian? Use a plant-based ground "meat" alternative or a mixture of beans.
• Rice Alternatives: You can swap white or brown rice for quinoa, wild rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
• Dairy-Free: If you want to make it dairy-free, replace the cream of mushroom soup with a non-dairy cream soup and use vegan cheese.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use frozen mixed vegetables for extra convenience.
• Spice It Up: Want a little heat? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the casserole a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a breakdown of how to make Hamburger Rice Casserole from scratch. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious, perfectly cooked meal:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little oil.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Liquids

Stir in the beef broth, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and paprika. Mix everything together until combined.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat and vegetable mixture. Make sure all the rice is evenly coated with the liquid.

Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so the rice cooks uniformly.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent the rice from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Let It Rest

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not covering the casserole: Always cover the casserole when baking, as this ensures that the rice cooks properly and stays moist.
• Overcooking the rice: Be sure to check the casserole at the 50-minute mark to avoid overcooking the rice, which can make it mushy.
• Using too much cheese: While cheese is delicious, using too much can make the dish overly greasy. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking is key for achieving the best texture. Don’t skip this step!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Hamburger Rice Casserole is a hearty dish that can be served on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and presenting it nicely can elevate your meal. Here are some serving suggestions and tips:

How to Serve Hamburger Rice Casserole

• As a main dish: This casserole is filling enough to be served on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.
• With a side of bread: Serve the casserole with a crusty loaf of bread or garlic bread to soak up the savory juices.
• With a dollop of sour cream: Adding a spoonful of sour cream on top can provide a cool, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Individual servings: If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for a more elegant presentation.
• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top of the casserole before serving can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
• Layering the cheese: For a prettier presentation, you can layer half the cheese into the casserole before baking and sprinkle the rest on top for a golden-brown finish.

Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing instructions: This casserole freezes well! Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Add more veggies: Don’t be afraid to pack in more vegetables. Carrots, corn, or spinach can add extra nutrients and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, you can use instant rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since instant rice cooks much faster than regular rice. Check the rice package instructions and reduce the baking time accordingly.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the rice is tender.

Can I add beans to the casserole?

Yes, you can add beans such as black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans for extra protein and fiber.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

If you’re not a fan of canned soups or want a healthier alternative, you can make a simple white sauce from scratch using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Rice Casserole is the perfect go-to recipe when you want a delicious, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its hearty combination of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, plus a cheesy topping, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Don’t be afraid to customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs, and enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or even leftovers. Make sure to try this recipe and savor the cozy, homemade goodness it delivers!

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