Comfort in a Dish: Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
When the chill of the evening sets in and you’re in need of some culinary comfort, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, cheesy casserole to warm your spirits. This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole combines simple ingredients into an indulgent, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.
Packed with savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and a generous topping of melted cheddar, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings together the comforting flavors of home-cooked simplicity.
A Hearty, Homestyle Meal
This recipe is all about convenience and flavor. With its robust layers of rice, beef, and cheese, it’s a complete meal in one dish that saves on cleanup while maximizing taste.
The rice cooks in the oven, absorbing the rich flavors of the beef broth and cream of mushroom soup, resulting in a creamy, flavorful base for the seasoned beef and onions. Topped with a layer of gooey cheddar, this casserole is a delightful way to end any day.
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish helps prevent sticking and ensures easy serving.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions are translucent. This not only cooks the meat but also builds a flavor base with the aromatics.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step is important for keeping the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup into the skillet. Mix well and bring the mixture to a simmer. This combination will form the creamy, savory base of your casserole.
- Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. The foil helps keep moisture in, ensuring the rice cooks perfectly.
- After 50 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, and return to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This final step adds a deliciously cheesy crust to the dish.
- Let the casserole stand for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
