Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Creamy Cheesy Beef Rice Casserole for Cozy Dinners 🍚🥩🧀

1. Introduction

Looking for the perfect rice casserole that combines hearty flavors with cheesy goodness? This creamy cheesy beef rice casserole is a comfort food classic that’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at your dinner table. With tender beef, gooey cheese, and fluffy rice, this cheesy rice bake is the ultimate dish for cozy nights and family gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this hearty dinner recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

2. Ingredients Needed for This Hearty Beef Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare This Cheesy Rice Bake

Preparing the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.

Sautéing the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Cooking the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Combining Rice and Beef

In the same skillet, stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Assembling the Cheesy Rice Casserole

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Baking to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Beef Rice Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave portions until heated through or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Rice Bake

This hearty dinner pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For an extra layer of flavor, top with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. You can also serve with a side of garlic bread or your favorite roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

6. FAQs About Creamy Cheesy Beef Rice Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What are good substitutions for ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a different flavor and dietary preference.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

No, since it contains beef. However, you can substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total prep and cook time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick and filling hearty dinner.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for your casserole.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Handy for chopping onions and garlic quickly and efficiently.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Great for prepping your ingredients in advance or keeping leftovers warm.

8. Related recipes you might enjoy

• Hearty Creamy Cowboy Soup
• Creamy Chicken and Rice Comfort Bowl
• Ultimate Garlic Butter Steak

9. Conclusion

This cheesy rice bake is the ultimate hearty dinner that combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity in one delicious casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family meals, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Try this recipe today and enjoy a cozy, cheesy, beef-filled meal that everyone will love!

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