Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole

There’s something so comforting about a hearty casserole, and this Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is no exception. Packed with savory ground beef, tender rice, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-dish wonder is as easy as it is satisfying!

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you probably already have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep it earlier in the day and bake it when you’re ready.

Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole

To make this comforting dish, you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet: To cook the beef and vegetables.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: For assembling the casserole.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking.

How to Make Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the bowl and stir to combine. If using frozen peas or corn, fold them in now.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
2. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven for 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Tips for the Best Hamburger Rice Casserole

• Use Good-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded.
• Customize It: Add diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or other vegetables for extra flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for some heat.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the casserole (before adding cheese) in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use instant rice?
Yes! Adjust the baking time to about 30-40 minutes, as instant rice cooks faster.

Q2: Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a dairy-free cream soup and substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Of course! Use a larger baking dish or divide it into two smaller dishes.

Conclusion: A Comforting Classic for Every Occasion

This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of flavor—perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become a family favorite!

Did you make this recipe? Share your thoughts and photos on social media—we’d love to see how it turned out for you!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g

Dig into this hearty casserole and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal!

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