Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy soup, and golden melted cheese. It’s a simple recipe that brings together easy-to-find ingredients, making it perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also a complete meal that everyone will love.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
0.5 cup long grain white rice
0.75 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Crumble the ground beef into a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir until evenly browned. Drain off excess grease.
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and uncooked rice. Cover the skillet and let it simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked, about 15 minutes.
Preheat the oven’s broiler. Once the rice is done cooking, transfer everything from the skillet to a casserole dish. Add a layer of shredded cheese on top.
Broil the casserole until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Serve the casserole hot right from the oven. It pairs nicely with a side salad or some crusty bread. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving.

How to Store Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool down before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Make sure to drain the grease from the ground beef to keep the dish from getting too oily.
You can add some vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
If you like a bit of spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mixture.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the simmering time accordingly.

2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or legumes such as black beans or lentils.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in the baking dish and store it in the fridge until you are ready to cook it. Just allow extra time for baking.