Hamburger Rice Casserole
This easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a hearty, one-pan dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and gooey melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is pure comfort food in every bite.
With minimal prep and cook time, this delicious meal comes together in just 35 minutes. It’s a fantastic choice when you’re craving something simple, satisfying, and family-friendly. Serve it with a side salad or your favorite veggies for a complete dinner.
Essential Ingredients for Hamburger Rice Casserole
- Ground beef – Provides the casserole with rich, savory flavor and heartiness.
- White onion – Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch to balance the dish.
- Low-sodium beef broth – Infuses the rice with a depth of flavor while keeping it moist and tender.
- Long-grain white rice – Absorbs all the savory goodness, making the casserole hearty and filling.
- Tomato paste – Gives a slight tang and rich color to the dish.
- Onion and garlic powder – Enhance the flavor without the need for fresh ingredients.
- Chili powder and cumin – Add a hint of warmth and spice to elevate the flavor profile.
- Dried oregano – Brings a subtle herbaceous note, making the casserole more aromatic.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – The star topping that melts into creamy deliciousness over the warm casserole.
Simple Steps to Make Hamburger Rice Casserole
Start by browning the ground beef and onions in a large skillet until the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Once the beef is ready, add the broth, rice, tomato paste, and seasonings—onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, cumin, oregano, and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
After the rice is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Uncover and sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese on top, then cover the dish again to allow the residual heat to melt the cheese.
Serve your Hamburger Rice Casserole warm, and enjoy its comforting flavors with your favorite side.
Pro Tips and Variations
For extra richness, try using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition. If you’re looking to switch up the cheese, try using pepper jack for a spicy kick, or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
For a gluten-free version, ensure that the broth and seasonings you use are certified gluten-free. The recipe is easily customizable based on your dietary preferences.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the casserole in the microwave or on the stovetop. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen by baking in the oven until heated through, or thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
This Hamburger Rice Casserole is just as delicious reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week!
Hamburger Rice Casserole
Zutaten
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 pound ground beef preferably 93/7 lean
- ½ cup white onion finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 ¼ cups low-sodium beef broth
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ cup tomato paste
Anleitungen
- In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onions, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked, with no pink remaining. Drain any excess grease and return the beef to the pan.
- Stir in the beef broth, rice, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, cumin, oregano, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Uncover, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and cover again to allow the heat to melt the cheese.
- Serve the casserole warm, pairing it with a side dish of your choice.