Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

If you’re craving a hearty, creamy, and cheesy dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day, this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole will be your new go-to. The first time I made it, my kitchen smelled like melted cheddar heaven, and my family couldn’t wait for it to come out of the oven. It’s the perfect combination of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, a rich creamy mushroom base, and a generous layer of cheddar cheese that melts into bubbly perfection.

This dish is more than just food — it’s comfort in a casserole dish. It’s also a lifesaver for busy parents, students, or anyone who wants a satisfying dinner without juggling multiple pans. Since it’s a one-pan beef and rice dinner, cleanup is minimal, and the leftovers reheat like a dream. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this is one of those family-friendly casserole meals that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole and Why They Work

Every component of this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole has a job to do. The ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly, and flexible enough for substitutions.

• Ground beef – The star protein, adding rich, savory flavor. You can use lean beef for a lighter option.
• Onion – Brings sweetness and depth to balance the richness.
• Garlic – Adds a fragrant punch that makes the dish smell irresistible.
• Long-grain rice (uncooked) – Holds its texture during baking and absorbs all the savory juices.
• Beef broth – Infuses the rice with flavor and moisture.
• Cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy base and binds everything together.
• Cheddar cheese (shredded) – The cheesy crown on top; choose sharp cheddar for more bite.
• Salt, black pepper, paprika – Essential seasonings for balance and warmth.
• Fresh parsley – For a pop of freshness and color when serving.

You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, or use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. For a gluten-free beef casserole, make sure your cream of mushroom soup and broth are certified gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Directions for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Step 1 – Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2 – Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef and cook until it starts to brown. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until the beef is fully cooked and the onions turn soft and translucent. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3 – Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the uncooked long-grain rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, and paprika. This step is where the flavors begin to mingle. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so the rice can start absorbing the seasoned broth.

Step 4 – Transfer and Bake Covered

Pour the beef and rice mixture into your prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This ensures the rice cooks evenly and stays tender.

Step 5 – Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return the casserole to the oven. Bake uncovered for 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly layer.

Step 6 – Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a bright finish. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate baked ground beef recipe.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

This casserole is filling enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with lighter sides can make it even better:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans for extra veggies.
• Garlic bread to soak up any creamy sauce left on your plate.

If you enjoy this kind of meal, you might also love our cheesy pasta with ground beef for another cheesy comfort food fix.

Variations and Customizations for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

One of the best things about this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is how easy it is to tweak based on your tastes or what’s in your fridge.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and black beans for a hearty vegetarian casserole.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.
• Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped carrots, bell peppers, or peas for more nutrients and color.
• Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella for gooey stretch, pepper jack for spice, or a blend for complexity.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soup and broth to make a gluten-free beef casserole.

For another flavorful twist on baked dinners, check out our vegetarian casserole with Mexican flavors.

Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Tips

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until hot, or microwave in individual portions.

If you love freezer-friendly casseroles, try our savory breakfast casserole with sausage and potatoes for a morning-friendly option.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Use freshly shredded cheese — pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
• Don’t overcook the rice on the stovetop; it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving so it slices neatly.
• Taste the beef mixture before baking and adjust seasoning as needed.

FAQs

For another baked comfort food option, try our Italian-inspired meatloaf for weeknight meals.

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

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• Author: Jake
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

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Description

A hearty, creamy, and cheesy casserole with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, a rich mushroom base, and melted cheddar — the ultimate comfort food for busy nights.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until starting to brown. Add onion and garlic; cook until beef is fully cooked and onions are soft. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese over top, and bake uncovered for 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting. Don’t overcook the rice before baking; it will finish cooking in the oven.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Final thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the definition of comfort food — cheesy, creamy, and satisfying without being complicated. It’s a weeknight casserole recipe you can rely on, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends.

The best part? You can make it your own with endless variations, from spicy twists to veggie-packed versions. Next time you’re craving a cozy dinner, skip the takeout and bake up this casserole instead. And if you want another crowd-pleaser, try our classic homemade lasagna for family dinners — it’s another one that disappears fast at my table.

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