If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make and will fill everyone up, this Hamburger & Rice Casserole is your new best friend. It’s a simple, one-pan wonder that combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a savory sauce, all baked together into a delicious, satisfying casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a family or prepping for a busy week, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser—and leftovers? Even better the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hamburger & Rice Casserole is perfect for those days when you want something filling, but don’t have a ton of time or energy. The ground beef gets browned and mixed with onions, garlic, and a rich, tangy tomato sauce, creating a flavorful base for the rice to soak up. The rice cooks perfectly in the oven, absorbing all the yummy juices from the beef and sauce. Top it with cheese, and you’ve got a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s super customizable—you can add extra veggies or spice it up to make it your own!
Ingredients
(Full list of ingredients is at the bottom!)
Here’s a quick peek at what you’ll need for this simple yet delicious casserole:
- Ground beef (lean or regular)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Rice (white or brown)
- Tomato sauce
- Beef broth
- Shredded cheese (cheddar is a favorite!)
- Salt and pepper
This recipe is all about using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to create a meal that feels indulgent but doesn’t require a ton of effort.
Directions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess grease. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring the flavor! Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and thicken slightly. If you’re using any additional spices (like oregano or paprika), this is when you’d add them.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Next, stir in the uncooked rice, making sure it’s fully mixed into the beef and sauce mixture. The rice will absorb all that tasty flavor as it cooks. Be sure the rice is evenly spread in the pan.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then cover the dish with aluminum foil. Pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
After 25 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, and return it to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, with a side of vegetables or a simple salad. The cheese on top gives it the perfect finish—melted, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Rice choice: While white rice works best in this casserole, you can also use brown rice if you prefer a healthier option. Just keep in mind that brown rice will need a little extra cooking time—add 10-15 minutes to the overall baking time if you go with brown rice.
- Make it a one-pan meal: For an even easier version, add some veggies (like bell peppers, peas, or corn) directly to the beef and rice mixture before baking. The casserole will have a little more color and flavor with minimal effort.
- Don’t skip the cheese: The cheese adds a creamy, melty layer that really takes the casserole to the next level. Don’t skimp on this part!
- Use lean beef for a lighter dish: If you’re watching your fat intake, use lean ground beef or even ground turkey. Just make sure to drain any excess fat during the cooking process.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Ground turkey or chicken: If you want to lighten things up, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives to beef. They’ll still absorb all the flavor from the tomato sauce and broth.
- Add extra veggies: For a more balanced meal, throw in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach with the beef and onions. The vegetables will cook perfectly with the rice and sauce.
- Make it spicy: If you like a little kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce. A bit of cayenne pepper can also spice things up!
- No tomato sauce?: If you don’t have tomato sauce on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or even a jar of salsa for a different flavor twist.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Hamburger & Rice Casserole is a great stand-alone meal, but it also pairs well with a few simple sides:
- Steamed vegetables: A side of broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots would complement the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic bread: If you want to indulge a little more, serve the casserole with some warm garlic bread. It’s perfect for scooping up any extra sauce.
- Green salad: A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the heaviness of the casserole and adds a refreshing touch.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw would be a great contrast to the cheesy casserole.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? You’re in luck! This casserole keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat it in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to dig in.
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of water or broth before reheating. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
4 FAQs
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just pop it in the oven the next day when you’re ready to eat. - Can I use instant rice?
Instant rice works, but the texture may be a bit different since it absorbs moisture faster. If using instant rice, reduce the baking time by about 10 minutes. - Can I freeze Hamburger & Rice Casserole?
Definitely! This casserole freezes really well. After baking, let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. - Can I add beans to the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding black beans or kidney beans would be a great way to stretch the recipe and add some extra protein. Stir them in with the rice before baking.
Conclusion
Hamburger & Rice Casserole is the definition of comfort food: simple, satisfying, and easy to make. It’s one of those recipes that you’ll come back to again and again because it’s so versatile and always hits the spot. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a meal for a crowd, this casserole is sure to please. Give it a try, and enjoy all the cozy, cheesy goodness!
Print
Hamburger & Rice Casserole: The Comfort Food You Didn’t Know You Needed
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty, comforting one-pan meal made with seasoned ground beef, rice, and a savory sauce, all baked into a cheesy casserole. This dish is easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, and packed with comforting flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white or brown rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat. Stir in the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft (3-4 minutes).
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in tomato sauce, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add Rice: Stir in uncooked rice and mix well.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy! Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use brown rice for a healthier option, but note it will require a longer cooking time (add 10-15 minutes).
- Add veggies like bell peppers or peas to the casserole for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg