Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A one-pan meal that’s filling and flavorful
Simple pantry staples that come together quickly
Creamy, cheesy, and hearty with minimal effort
Family-friendly and kid-approved
Easy to customize with different seasonings or vegetables
Great for meal prep, storing, and reheating later

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Long-grain rice
Beef broth
Cream of mushroom soup
Cheddar cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Fresh parsley

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, and mushroom soup. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use cream of chicken or celery soup for a different flavor base.
Add vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Replace cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a melty twist.
For a spicier version, add jalapeños, chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Make it vegetarian with plant-based meat or mushrooms instead of beef.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave for quick servings or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly since instant rice cooks faster.

Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Absolutely, ground turkey works well as a lighter option.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend also taste great.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and double-check the broth.

How do I make it creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or an extra half can of mushroom soup.

Can I add pasta instead of rice?

Yes, but cook the pasta beforehand and reduce the broth slightly.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make great pairings.

Can I freeze the casserole before baking?

Yes, assemble it without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.

How do I prevent the rice from being undercooked?

Make sure to simmer the mixture briefly before baking, and keep the casserole covered during the first bake.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a cozy, fuss-free dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. With its creamy texture, savory beef, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe when you want something hearty and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. This is comfort food at its finest, and it’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Lily