Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty casserole, and this Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole has quickly become a staple in our household. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and cheesy topping, it’s a dish that satisfies everyone. My family couldn’t get enough of it—especially the kids, who loved the cheesy, savory combination. Even better, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses pantry staples and ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Easy Preparation: Just a little prep work and the oven does the rest!
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s the epitome of comfort.
One-Dish Meal: Less mess to clean up afterward.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
2 cups water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease.
Combine ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, water, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
Bake for 1 hour.
Add the cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 400

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

How to Serve

This casserole is versatile and pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some ideas:

With a fresh salad: A crisp garden salad adds a refreshing contrast.
With vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots.
With bread: A slice of garlic bread or a dinner roll complements the dish beautifully.
As-is: It’s a hearty meal on its own!

Additional Tips

Customize the cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.
Add vegetables: Mix in frozen peas, carrots, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Use leftover rice: If you have cooked rice on hand, adjust the water accordingly and bake for less time.
Double the recipe: It’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd; leftovers reheat beautifully.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 15–20 minutes and add more water to ensure the rice cooks fully.

2. Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze it after baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

5. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of celery or an extra can of cream of chicken soup.

6. Can I add more cheese?
Of course! Feel free to mix cheese into the casserole or increase the topping for extra cheesiness.

7. What can I do if my casserole is too dry?
Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to restore moisture.

8. Can I use instant rice?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to 30–40 minutes as instant rice cooks faster.

9. How do I make it vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or mushrooms and use vegetable-based cream soups.

10. Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cream of celery, tomato soup, or even nacho cheese soup for a twist.

Conclusion

The Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s simple to prepare and loved by all. Its rich, cheesy flavor and hearty ingredients make it a winner for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, you’ll never get bored. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a dish to impress friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.

So why not give it a try tonight? One bite, and you’ll see why this casserole has earned a spot in our family recipe book!