There’s something magical about the combination of ground beef, rice, and a symphony of flavors that makes Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole an all-time favorite. Imagine a warm, cheesy embrace wrapping around each grain of fluffy rice and tender beef, creating a dish that radiates comfort and satisfaction. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes is enough to make even the pickiest eaters weak at the knees. For more inspiration, check out this rice and sausage recipes recipe.
As I stood in my kitchen with my mom, stirring together ingredients while dodging her playful swats for sneaking bites of raw cheese, I realized this was more than just a recipe; it was a delightful trip down memory lane. perfect appetizer pairing Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends, this casserole delivers on flavor and nostalgia, promising an amazing culinary experience that will leave you longing for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is incredibly simple to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory beef and creamy cheese for a taste explosion.
- Visually appealing with its golden top and colorful ingredients, it’s sure to impress guests.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices based on what you have in your pantry.
Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. sweet dessert option.
Long-Grain White Rice: This cooks perfectly in the casserole while absorbing all those delicious juices.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for best results.
Canned Tomato Soup: This serves as the base sauce; opt for low-sodium varieties if you’re watching salt intake.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates a gooey finish; choose sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
For the Seasoning:
Garlic Powder: Adds essential flavor without the chopping hassle; use freshly minced garlic if preferred.
Dried Oregano: Offers a hint of earthiness that pairs beautifully with beef and tomato.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab your trusty baking dish (about 9×13 inches works wonders) and give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent—about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease because no one likes an oily casserole!
Step 3: Mix It All Together
In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with uncooked rice, canned tomato soup, garlic powder, oregano, and salt & pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined; feel free to channel your inner chef as you mix!
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish evenly. Smooth out the top so it looks inviting—presentation matters even in casseroles!
Step 5: Bake Away
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes or until rice is tender.
Step 6: Add Cheese Magic
Remove foil carefully (watch out for steam!) and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Return it to the oven uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and serve hot! Drizzle with any extra sauce from the dish for added flavor. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this easy hamburger rice casserole!
Now you’re ready to impress family or friends with this classic comfort food that’s bound to bring everyone together around the dinner table! With its hearty flavors and simple preparation steps, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again—just like I do during my own culinary adventures!
You Must Know
- This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish.
- With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll find it irresistible.
- The blend of savory beef, tender rice, and gooey cheese makes dinner time stress-free and absolutely delicious.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet until it’s nicely caramelized. While that sizzles away, cook the rice separately according to package instructions. Once both components are ready, combine them with your favorite veggies and spices for the ultimate casserole.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. Toss in some diced bell peppers or corn for extra color and crunch. You can even experiment with different cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack all bring their own flair!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through. A splash of broth can help revive its moisture if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always brown the meat well to enhance flavor; no one likes a bland casserole.
- Make sure to season each layer for a punchy taste.
- And remember, letting it rest before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Sharing my Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole with friends at our last potluck was a blast! Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rockstar—who knew something so simple could create such joy?
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole?
To prepare an Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole, you will need ground beef, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), bell peppers, onion, and cheese. Additionally, include seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor. This dish is versatile; feel free to add other vegetables or spices based on your preference. Having everything prepared will make cooking easier and faster.
How long does it take to cook Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Cooking Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. This includes approximately 15 minutes for preparation and around 30 to 40 minutes in the oven. quick baked pasta dish To ensure even cooking, it is essential to cover the casserole with foil for part of the baking time. The dish should be bubbling and the rice fully cooked before serving.
Can I make Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble all the ingredients in a baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What can I serve with Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top can enhance your dining experience. This casserole is filling enough on its own but complements simple sides nicely.
Conclusion for Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole:
In summary, the Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a delicious and simple dish that combines ground beef and rice in one hearty meal. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. easy chicken dinner idea By using fresh ingredients and your favorite seasonings, you can customize this casserole to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this comforting dish that is sure to please everyone at the table!
Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, making it an ideal comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This easy-to-make casserole is bursting with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste, ensuring every bite feels like a warm hug.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can low-sodium tomato soup
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef mixture with uncooked rice, tomato soup, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Customize by adding veggies like bell peppers or corn. Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
