This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting dish packed with ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love how easy this meal is to whip up—just mix everything in one pot, bake, and enjoy! Plus, those cheesy bites are simply irresistible! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein for the dish. You can use lean beef, turkey, or even meat alternatives like lentils for a vegetarian option.
Rice: White rice is used here, but brown rice or even quinoa works too! Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you’re using brown rice or quinoa since they take longer to cook.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor. If you want something milder, try Monterey Jack or Mozzarella. You could also use dairy-free cheese alternatives if you’re lactose intolerant.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option!
How Do I Prevent Overcooking the Rice?
Getting the rice just right is essential for this casserole. To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on it during the initial simmer. You want the rice to start absorbing some liquid but not completely cook. Follow these steps:
- Bring the mixture to a boil before lowering the heat to simmer.
- Simmer for just 5 minutes before removing it from heat. The rice will continue to cook in the oven.
- Check for tenderness before taking it out. It should be slightly firm since it’ll soften more while baking.
Following these tips will help you achieve a perfectly cooked rice casserole every time!
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients List
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40 minutes to bake. With a total of about 55 minutes, you will have a warm, cheesy dish ready to share with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s ready when you’re done mixing everything!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, add olive oil or butter and heat over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, be sure to drain it off.
4. Mix in Rice and Other Ingredients:
Next, stir in the uncooked rice, the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth (or water), salt, black pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. Mix everything well until it’s nicely combined.
5. Bring to a Simmer:
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Then, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You want the rice to start soaking up some liquid but don’t let it cook completely yet.
6. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:
Once you’ve simmered, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream until everything is well blended. Get ready for that creamy goodness!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble up beautifully.
8. Let it Rest:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps it set up perfectly for serving.
Enjoy every delicious bite of your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole! It’s warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It will make the casserole a bit leaner while still providing excellent flavor. Just be mindful that turkey can be drier, so you may want to add a splash more broth or sour cream if desired.
What If I’m Out of Beef Broth?
No problem! You can replace beef broth with water or chicken broth. If you want extra flavor, add a bit of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to your water for a deeper taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave portions or warm them in the oven until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help restore moisture!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this casserole vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and ensure your cheese and sour cream are vegetarian-friendly for a delicious meatless option!