Name: Hamburger & Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup white or brown rice; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

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Short Description

Hamburger & Rice Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, rice, and a savory blend of seasonings baked to perfection. This easy-to-make one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a filling and satisfying option for the whole family. With minimal prep and a deliciously creamy texture, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: Requires minimal effort with simple ingredients.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
One-Pan Convenience: Fewer dishes to wash, making cleanup a breeze.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to different dietary needs.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples, making it an economical meal option.

Ingredients

Ground beef
White or brown rice
Onion
Garlic
Cream of mushroom soup
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Butter
Cheddar cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Italian seasoning

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Stir well.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a casserole dish and pour the mixture into it.
Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Add Cheese: Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Healthier Option: Use lean ground turkey instead of beef and low-sodium broth.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Cheesy Twist: Mix in different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
Extra Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added nutrition.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use instant rice?

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

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

Try cream of chicken soup or make a homemade cream sauce with butter, flour, and milk.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Use long-grain rice and avoid over-stirring.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar works well, but Colby or Monterey Jack are great alternatives.

Can I add beans for extra protein?

Absolutely! Black beans or kidney beans make great additions.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free soup alternative and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the creamy, cheesy texture and mild flavors.

Conclusion

Hamburger & Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a cozy meal to enjoy with family, this casserole delivers on taste and convenience. Try it out and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

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