If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings together the comforting harmony of cheese, beef, and rice, you’re in for a treat. This cheesy hamburger rice casserole is a testament to hearty and fulfilling home-cooked meals. Perfectly layered with savory beef and enveloped in gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite and a table-top showstopper.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Oven-safe casserole dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and preparing them. Chop the onion and bell pepper into small, uniformly sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Mince the garlic cloves and keep them aside. Shred the cheddar and mozzarella cheese separately, and remember, freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon while it cooks, making sure there are no large chunks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to lighten the dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Maintain the skillet on medium heat and add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables until they become tender and the onions appear translucent, usually for about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Broth
Add the cup of rice into the skillet, followed by the beef broth. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the rice is distributed evenly throughout the beef and vegetables. Add salt, pepper, and paprika, stirring again to distribute the seasoning.
Step 5: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, take the mixed contents of the skillet and gently transfer them to an oven-safe casserole dish. Level the mixture with a spatula for even cooking.
Step 6: Add Cheese Layers
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole contents. Follow with a layer of mozzarella cheese. The dual cheese topping will add a delectable crust and creamy texture to your casserole.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden-brown on top and the rice is perfectly cooked through. Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Serve the cheesy hamburger rice casserole straight from the oven while it’s hot and gooey. Pair it with a fresh side salad to balance the richness, or include a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a comforting twist, consider adding some dollops of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped scallions on each serving just before eating.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack for varied flavor profiles. Add spices like cumin or chili powder for a little extra heat, or swap in ground turkey for a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
Packed with Protein: Pump Up Your Casserole
Elevate your cheesy hamburger rice casserole into a protein powerhouse by introducing black beans or chickpeas into the mix. These not only add nutritional value but also bring a new texture and flavor dimension to the dish. Incorporate extra-lean ground turkey or additional beef for even more protein per serving, making your meal both nourishing and comforting.
Consider layering in some cooked quinoa for a higher protein content, providing a nutty undertone and a delightful crunch that plays well with the gooey cheese and savory beef mixture.
Delicious & Guilt-Free: Low-Carb Casserole Delight
Turn your cheesy casserole into a low-carb dream by substituting cauliflower rice for the traditional white rice. This clever switch retains the beloved cheesy texture yet significantly reduces carbohydrate intake, making it perfect for low-carb enthusiasts. Use almond flour to create a crumb topping for added texture and a keto-friendly boost.
If you’re looking to enhance the taste without the carbs, try adding diced zucchini or mushrooms. These veggies soak up flavors beautifully, complementing the seasoned beef and ensuring each bite is as fulfilling as ever.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. You can also freeze portions for up to three months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for a day before baking.
- Can I substitute the cheese with another type? Absolutely, mozzarella, or any semi-hard cheese can be used to suit your taste preferences.
- How can I make this casserole spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole? You can replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like Beyond Meat or additional hearty vegetables.
A Delicious Ending: Share Your Creation!
We hope you’ve enjoyed creating this cheesy wonder as much as tasting it! Whether you adapted the recipe or followed it to the dot, we want to hear from you. Share your thoughts in the comments and upload pictures of your culinary masterpiece to inspire others. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—good food is meant to be shared!
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- rice
- beef broth
- onion
- bell pepper
- cheddar cheese
- mozzarella cheese
- garlic
- salt
- black pepper
- paprika
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare all ingredients: chop onions and bell peppers, mince garlic, and shred cheese.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions, bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until tender. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir rice into the beef mixture and pour in the beef broth. Add salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.