Do Share Recipe

Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe | Hearty, Cheesy & Comforting

I have to admit, the first time I made this Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe, I felt like I had discovered a cozy, all-in-one dinner that everyone at my table loved. It’s one of those recipes that’s both comforting and surprisingly easy to make. The combination of tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce always hits the spot.

I love that I can make it ahead of time, and it tastes even better the next day. This casserole has quickly become a go-to weeknight dinner for me. If you enjoy hearty meals, you might also like Healthy Rice and Chicken Dinner Skillet Recipe, which has a similar comforting vibe but with a lighter twist.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole. Each ingredient plays an important role in flavor and texture, so I recommend using fresh or high-quality options whenever possible.

1 pound ground beef – I prefer 85% lean for juicy flavor without too much fat.
1 cup long-grain white rice – Rinsed before cooking to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – Adds creamy, savory richness.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
1/2 cup milk – Whole milk gives the creamiest result.
1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds natural sweetness and depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic boosts flavor far better than powdered.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Gives a subtle tang and umami punch.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adjust to taste.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Be cautious if your soup is already salty.
1/2 teaspoon paprika – Optional, for color and mild smoky flavor.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots – I recommend thawing slightly before adding so they cook evenly.

Note: Serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size.

Variations

This casserole is versatile and can be customized based on dietary preferences:

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
Swap cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor.
For a spicier version, stir in a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce.

For another flavorful dinner, you can also try the Tomato Basil Pasta with Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe—it’s a perfect complement to this casserole for a weeknight rotation.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – For browning the ground beef and sautéing onions.
9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect for even cooking and easy serving.
Mixing bowl – To combine soup, milk, and seasonings.
Spoon or spatula – For stirring and spreading ingredients evenly.
Cheese grater – If using a block of cheese.

How to Make Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe?

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Rinse the rice to remove excess starch, which helps keep it fluffy after baking. Grate your cheese fresh for the best melt and flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the onions and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant. Drain any excess fat before mixing in the seasonings.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth and creamy. This sauce will coat the rice and beef perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In your baking dish, layer the cooked rice first, then the beef mixture, and finally the peas and carrots. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top, making sure everything is well coated. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, these small tweaks make a big difference:

I like to brown the beef in butter for a richer flavor.
I always taste the sauce before baking and adjust seasoning if needed.
Letting the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes makes it easier to serve in neat portions.
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top brightens the flavor and adds color.

How to Serve Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe?

This casserole is great as a stand-alone meal or paired with fresh greens. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a casual family dinner. For a more elegant presentation, scoop individual portions onto plates and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. A side of crusty bread or a crisp salad complements it beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (serves 6):

Calories: 380-420
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

You can store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I usually cover it tightly to maintain moisture.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. I portion it into individual servings and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. I like to cover with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this casserole has become my go-to comfort food:

Quick and easy to make – Perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-friendly – Even picky eaters enjoy it.
Customizable – Swap proteins, veggies, or cheese to suit preferences.
Comforting flavors – Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying in every bite.
Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.

Ben Carraoli