Irresistible Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

The aroma of bubbling cheese and savory beef wafts through the kitchen, promising a comforting feast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole brings together all your favorite flavors in one delightful dish, making it the ultimate comfort food for busy families or lazy weekends alike.

Picture this: you’re gathered with friends and family, laughter echoes, and the table is filled with delicious dishes. Suddenly, you present your masterpiece—this cheesy concoction that combines hearty ground beef, fluffy rice, and ooey-gooey cheese. Everyone digs in, and you bask in the glory of their delighted faces as they savor every bite. It’s moments like these that make cooking worthwhile!

Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep it healthy while still packing a flavorful punch.

• Cooked Rice: Leftover rice works perfectly here; just make sure it’s fluffy and not too sticky.

• Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor; feel free to mix in other cheeses for fun.

• Diced Tomatoes: Opt for canned tomatoes to save time; they add moisture and flavor.

• Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté it first for better flavor.

• Bell Pepper: Any color works! This veggie provides crunch and color to the casserole.

• Garlic Powder: This seasoning elevates the dish with its aromatic punch—don’t skimp on it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until they’re tender, about five minutes. Add in the ground beef and cook until browned—don’t forget to break it apart as it cooks!

Step 3: Mix It All Together

Once the beef is browned, stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Transfer half of the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of your cheddar cheese over it before layering on the remaining meat mixture. Top with more cheese because let’s be honest—there’s no such thing as too much cheese!

Step 5: Bake Away

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (to avoid any cheesy disasters) and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil during the last five minutes so that glorious cheese can get all bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once out of the oven, let your casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls and watch everyone’s eyes light up as they dig into this cheesy delight!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole at your next family gathering or cozy night in—it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your home!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet with onions until they’re perfectly caramelized. Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions. Combine everything with seasonings and cheese in a casserole dish, then bake until bubbly and golden.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even veggie crumbles for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for heat or add veggies like bell peppers or corn to boost nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through; adding a splash of broth can help maintain moisture.

Sometimes I whip up this Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole during family movie nights, and it always earns rave reviews. One time, my niece declared I was a “cheese wizard!” That made my whole week!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?

To make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, you will need ground beef, uncooked rice, cheese (cheddar works best), diced tomatoes, onion, and a few seasonings like garlic powder and salt. Optional ingredients include bell peppers and corn for added flavor and texture. This combination creates a deliciously cheesy and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. For more inspiration, check out this delicious main dish recipes recipe.

How long does it take to cook Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?

The cooking time for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is approximately 30 to 40 minutes in the oven after preparing the ingredients. You’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking. It’s essential to ensure the rice is cooked thoroughly and the cheese is melted and bubbly for the perfect comfort food experience. For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.

Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole without baking it, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

What can I serve with Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole?

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also consider serving it with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce. The casserole itself is hearty enough, but these sides can complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole:

In summary, Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that combines ground beef, rice, and cheese into a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a satisfying dinner that appeals to all ages. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated later, this casserole promises warmth and flavor in every bite. Don’t hesitate to make this delicious recipe part of your weekly meal rotation!

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Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

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• Author: Maria Del
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that effortlessly combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheddar cheese into one delectable meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this hearty casserole that warms both the heart and stomach.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups cooked rice (fluffy)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 bell pepper (chopped, any color)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until tender (about 5 minutes). Add ground beef and cook until browned; break it apart as it cooks.
3. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Layer half of the mixture in the baking dish, sprinkle half the cheese on top, add the remaining mixture, and finish with more cheese.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and brown.
6. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg