If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor, this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining savory browned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, juicy tomatoes, and tender rice, all topped off with a bubbly layer of melted mozzarella, this casserole is a warm hug on a plate that never fails to satisfy. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want a delicious meal that feels like home in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that work harmoniously to create a casserole bursting with flavor, texture, and just the right pop of color. Each one plays a crucial role in building that classic comfort food magic.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides hearty, savory flavor and the protein base for the casserole.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.75 ounces): Adds creaminess and a rich, earthy depth to the dish.
- Diced tomatoes with juice (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Brings acidity and freshness to balance the richness.
- Long grain white rice (½ cup): Absorbs all the delicious flavors while adding comforting texture.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (¾ cup): Melts beautifully on top, creating that irresistible cheesy crust.
- Salt and pepper: To season and elevate the flavors perfectly before serving.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and browning the ground beef until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. This step not only builds a rich base of savory flavor but also gives you the perfect meaty texture. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from getting too oily.
Step 2: Mix in the Soup, Tomatoes, and Rice
Once the beef is browned, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the uncooked long grain white rice. This combination is the heart of the casserole, letting the rice soak up all those wonderful juices and come out tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Let It Simmer
Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let the mixture gently simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender. This slow cooking step melds flavors perfectly and ensures every spoonful is creamy and cohesive.
Step 4: Prepare for the Broiler
While the rice cooks, preheat your oven’s broiler to get ready for the final cheesy finish. Once the rice is done, transfer the entire mixture to a casserole dish, smoothing it out evenly to create a nice base for the cheese.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Broil
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole and place it under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it – the cheese should melt into a bubbly, golden crust that makes this dish a total winner.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season the casserole with salt and pepper to taste, giving it that final lift. Now it’s ready to be enjoyed! The combination of flavors and textures from this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe is truly irresistible.
How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh pop of color and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top just before serving. A little dollop of sour cream on the side adds creaminess and tang that pairs perfectly with the rich casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed seasonal vegetables. Think simple as a side to keep all the love centered on the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personal touch at your dinner table. Alternatively, layering it in a clear glass casserole dish can show off the colorful layers and melted cheese, making it visually as appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as tasty the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after broiling. Freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or gently reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly. Adding a little extra shredded cheese on top before reheating can refresh that melty cheesiness.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs liquid differently, so you may need to adjust the simmering time and liquid amounts accordingly.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup are good alternatives that still provide creaminess and flavor.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe freezes well and makes for a convenient make-ahead meal option when you’re short on time.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and verify that your diced tomatoes do not contain any gluten-containing additives.
How can I add more veggies to this casserole?
Feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms when you add the soup and tomatoes. It’s a great way to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe is that go-to comfort dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough to impress family and friends. Its creamy texture, flavorful ingredients, and cheesy top create a harmony that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try soon – I promise it’ll become one of your favorite homemade casseroles!
Print
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and tender rice, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it simmers on the stovetop and finishes under the broiler for a cheesy, bubbly crust.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound ground beef
- 0.75 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Canned Goods
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
Grains
- 0.5 cup long grain white rice
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the uncooked long grain white rice into the skillet with the beef. Mix everything until well combined.
- Simmer the casserole: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Preheat the broiler and prepare for baking: While the casserole simmers, preheat your oven’s broiler. Once the rice is tender, transfer the mixture from the skillet into a casserole dish.
- Add cheese and broil: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Place under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Season and serve: Remove from the oven carefully, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.
- Make sure to cover the skillet properly while simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions or garlic when browning the beef.
- Use low-fat cheese or less cheese to reduce the fat content.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
