Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

This cheesy hamburger rice casserole is my ultimate comfort food creation that never fails to bring smiles to the dinner table. The creamy rice, savory beef, and gooey cheese combine to create a hearty meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters in my household.

I first created this dish when my children were small and we needed affordable meals that would stretch our grocery budget. Years later, they still request it whenever they come home to visit proving that sometimes the simplest meals create the strongest memories.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: provides hearty protein and rich flavor use eighty twenty for best flavor without excess grease
• Long grain rice: creates the perfect foundation absorbs flavors while maintaining distinct texture
• Yellow onion: adds aromatic depth sweet notes develop during baking
• Shredded cheese: forms that irresistible golden crust use medium or sharp cheddar for best results
• Cream of mushroom soup: creates a creamy binding sauce without fussy preparation
• Sour cream: adds tanginess and creaminess balances the richness of the other ingredients
• Salt and pepper: always adjust to your family's preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Rice:

Prepare rice according to package directions until fully tender. For extra flavor consider using beef broth instead of water. The rice should be fluffy and completely cooked since it won't soften much more during baking. Allow it to cool slightly before mixing with other ingredients.

Brown the Beef:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add ground beef and break into small crumbles as it cooks. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains about seven to eight minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent a greasy casserole. A well-drained beef ensures proper texture throughout the dish.

Create the Creamy Base:

In a large mixing bowl combine cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until completely smooth. This mixture creates the creamy binding that holds everything together. Make sure to eliminate any lumps by stirring thoroughly for the smoothest texture.

Combine and Season:

Add the cooked rice browned beef and diced onion to the creamy base. Fold gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper tasting as you go to achieve the perfect flavor balance. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.

Assemble and Bake:

Transfer the mixture to a greased nine by thirteen baking dish spreading evenly to the corners. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese across the entire surface. Bake at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for exactly twenty five minutes until the cheese melts into a golden bubbling crust and the edges begin to turn crispy.

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The cream of mushroom soup is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. While it might seem like a humble canned good it creates a silky texture that binds everything together perfectly. My grandmother always kept a few cans in her pantry specifically for casseroles like this one and continuing that tradition makes me feel connected to those family cooking memories.

Make It Your Own

This casserole welcomes customization based on your family's preferences. Try adding diced bell peppers corn or peas for added vegetables and color. The recipe works beautifully with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Some families in my neighborhood add a layer of crushed potato chips or french fried onions on top for extra crunch before baking.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen overnight making this possibly even better the second day. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for one to two minutes until heated through. For larger portions cover with foil and reheat in a three hundred twenty five degree Fahrenheit oven for about twenty minutes until heated throughout.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines as a standalone meal but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli or green beans make excellent vegetable sides. For casual gatherings serve with pickles extra sour cream or even a dollop of salsa for those who enjoy a little heat with their comfort food.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of beef is best to use?

Use 80/20 ground beef for optimal flavor without excess grease, which helps maintain the casserole's texture.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it can be assembled up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to meld for better taste.

→ How can I customize the dish with vegetables?

Add diced bell peppers, corn, or peas to the mixture for extra color and nutrition without overpowering the creamy base.

→ What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through.

→ How do I get a crispy cheese topping?

Use freshly shredded medium or sharp cheddar and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles, forming a golden crust.

→ Is there a way to enhance the flavor of the rice?

Toast the rice in butter before cooking it in beef broth for a richer, nuttier taste that complements the beef.