Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole – Easy, Creamy & Family-Friendly Recipe

When it comes to comfort food that satisfies the whole family without breaking the budget, nothing beats a hearty cheesy hamburger rice casserole. This one-pan cheesy hamburger casserole combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, and melted cheese into a creamy, satisfying dish that’s become a weeknight dinner staple in countless homes. Whether you’re looking for an easy casserole recipe for busy weeknights or a simple ground beef and rice casserole to feed a crowd, this cheesy rice casserole with hamburger delivers every time.

This budget-friendly casserole idea transforms basic pantry ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that even picky eaters will devour. The beauty of this hamburger rice bake recipe lies in its simplicity – minimal prep, one dish, and maximum flavor that makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks.

Recipe Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 people
• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-dish convenience – Less cleanup means more time with family
• Budget-friendly ingredients – Uses affordable staples you likely have on hand
• Kid-approved comfort food – Cheesy, creamy, and mild enough for young palates
• Meal prep friendly – Makes excellent leftovers and freezes beautifully
• Customizable – Easy to adapt with your favorite ingredients and spices
• Quick weeknight solution – Ready in under an hour with minimal hands-on time

Ingredients

This family-friendly casserole dinner starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that create maximum flavor. The foundation of any great ground beef rice casserole begins with quality protein, starchy rice, and plenty of cheese for that irresistible creamy texture.

Main Components:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 1½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Base:

• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 2½ cups beef broth
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Finishing Touches:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley for color

The key to this creamy cheesy hamburger casserole is using a combination of cheeses and a rich, flavorful base that keeps the rice moist during baking.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Protein Swaps: Transform this versatile recipe by substituting ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter version. Italian sausage adds extra flavor depth, while ground lamb creates a more sophisticated profile.

Rice Alternatives: While white rice creates the classic texture, brown rice works wonderfully for added nutrition (increase liquid and cooking time by 10 minutes). Cauliflower rice offers a low-carb option, though it reduces cooking time significantly. Wild rice blend adds nutty flavor and interesting texture.

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gouda for unique flavor profiles. For a Tex-Mex twist, use pepper jack and add diced jalapeños, cumin, and chili powder.

Make-Ahead Freezer Option: Assemble the entire casserole without the final cheese topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator, add cheese, and bake as directed, adding 10-15 extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Creating this old-fashioned hamburger rice casserole follows a simple three-step process that builds layers of flavor while ensuring perfectly cooked rice and tender beef.

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and cook the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess grease, then season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. The well-seasoned beef forms the flavor foundation of your oven baked hamburger rice dish.

Step 2: Mix with Rice & Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until everything is evenly distributed – the rice should be completely coated with the creamy mixture.

Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to ensure the rice cooks properly and doesn’t dry out during the initial baking phase.

Step 3: Bake with Cheese on Top

Bake covered for 25 minutes, then remove foil and check that rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Top with 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella, then return to oven uncovered for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving – this allows the cheese to set slightly and makes serving easier. Garnish with remaining cheddar, chopped green onions, and fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Expert Tips for Success

Choose the Right Cheese: For the meltiest, creamiest texture, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded. The anti-caking agents in pre-shredded cheese can prevent smooth melting. Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor balance, while mozzarella adds stretch and creaminess.

Perfect Rice Every Time: Use long-grain white rice for the best texture – it holds its shape better than short-grain varieties. Don’t rinse the rice before adding it to the casserole; the natural starches help thicken the sauce. If your rice seems undercooked after the covered baking time, add ¼ cup more broth and continue baking covered for 5-10 minutes.

Boost the Creaminess: For an extra-rich casserole, substitute half the beef broth with heavy cream or add an additional ¼ cup sour cream. A tablespoon of cream cheese stirred into the hot beef mixture also creates luxurious texture.

Make It Go Further: Stretch this recipe to feed more people by adding frozen mixed vegetables, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms. These additions boost nutrition and volume without significantly increasing cost.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover cheesy hamburger rice casserole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve after a day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Freezing Instructions: This quick weeknight casserole recipe freezes exceptionally well. Cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire casserole tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and reheating instructions.

Reheating Tips: For best results, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through, covering with foil to prevent over-browning. Microwave individual portions on 70% power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of broth if the rice seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cheesy hamburger rice casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! This easy casserole recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from cold. You can also freeze the assembled casserole for up to 3 months.

Can I use leftover rice? Yes, but adjust the recipe accordingly. Use 3 cups of cooked rice and reduce the liquid to 1½ cups total. Mix everything together and bake for just 20-25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted, as the rice is already tender.

How long does hamburger rice casserole last? Properly stored in the refrigerator, this comfort food recipe stays fresh for 4-5 days. The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers often taste even better than the original meal. Always reheat to 165°F before serving.

Can I make this gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free version or make your own white sauce. Always check labels on processed ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

What’s the best way to prevent mushy rice? Use long-grain white rice and don’t overcook. The rice should be barely tender when you add the cheese topping. If you’re concerned about texture, you can partially cook the rice separately for 10 minutes, drain, then proceed with the recipe.

What to Serve With It

This hearty cheesy comfort food recipe pairs beautifully with lighter sides that balance the richness. A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette cuts through the creamy cheese, while steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to the plate.

Warm garlic bread or dinner rolls are classic accompaniments that help soak up any extra sauce. For a complete comfort food experience, serve with buttered corn or roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts.

Consider lighter options like cucumber salad, coleslaw, or a simple tomato and basil salad to provide fresh contrast to this rich, satisfying casserole.

Printable Recipe Card

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1½ cups white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 2½ cups beef broth
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook onion in oil for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic for 30 seconds.
3. Add ground beef, cook until browned. Drain and season.
4. Mix beef, rice, soup, broth, sour cream, and seasonings.
5. Transfer to baking dish, cover with foil.
6. Bake 25 minutes covered, then top with cheese.
7. Bake uncovered 10-12 minutes until cheese melts.
8. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes:

• Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting
• Don’t rinse rice before using
• Can be made ahead and frozen
• Serves 6-8 people

Nutrition (per serving): Approximately 420 calories, 28g protein, 35g carbohydrates, 18g fat

You May Also Like…

If you enjoyed this budget-friendly casserole idea, you’ll love these similar comfort food recipes that are perfect for family dinners:

• Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers – Another ground beef and rice combination with a healthy twist
• Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole – A vegetarian version that’s equally satisfying
• Hamburger Stroganoff Casserole – Creamy, noodle-based comfort food with similar flavors
• Mexican Rice Casserole – A spicy variation with black beans and corn
• Tuna Noodle Casserole – Classic comfort food with a different protein
• King Ranch Chicken – Texas-style casserole with layers of flavor
• Shepherd’s Pie – Another ground beef casserole with mashed potato topping

This cheddar hamburger rice bake represents the best of comfort food cooking – simple ingredients transformed into something special through careful technique and generous amounts of cheese. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or preparing a make-ahead meal for the week, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite.