Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together the flavors of savory beef, creamy soup, and gooey cheese. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is not only satisfying but also budget-friendly. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that cuts down on cleanup time!

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
0.5 cup long grain white rice
0.75 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Crumble the ground beef into a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir until evenly browned. Drain off grease, and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and uncooked rice. Cover and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until rice is cooked, about 15 minutes.
Preheat the oven’s broiler. When the rice is done cooking, transfer the contents of the skillet to a casserole dish. Cover with a layer of cheese.
Broil until the cheese is melted and toasty. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add some warm bread to soak up any leftover sauce. The dish is hearty enough on its own, but these sides enhance the meal.

How to Store Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Make sure to drain the excess grease from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, like peas or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to create unique flavors. Adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning can also give it a nice kick.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the simmering time accordingly.

What can I serve with Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?

This dish pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the point before broiling, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for a day. Just broil it right before serving.