What are those nights? The ones where the clock is ticking, you’ve got a million things swirling in your head, and the ones that are hardly noticeable. What is it like to make a complicated dinner? Yeah, I live for those nights because they’re the birthplace of my favorite, go-to meal. What is a weeknight dinner? It’s like a warm hug in ’em pan, savory symphony that hits the spot. My kids, bless their picky hearts, actually ask for this by name. I have zero energy for fussy eaters. It’s a lifesaver when I’m craving something deeply satisfying but have no energy to eat. If you’ve ever loved a classic tuna Noodle Casserole or fried ziti, then this hearty hamburger is the perfect meal. What are some of the best recipes for rice casserole? What are some of the comforting flavor profiles of this ice cream? Bit different, a little bit more us. I can’t wait to share it with you!
What is Hamburger Rice Casserole?
What is this magical dish we call hamburger rice casserole? Think of it as the ultimate comfort food mash-up. Is it essentially seasoned ground beef, tender cooked rice, and a creamy, savory sauce, all baked? Is it possible to mix together until it’s bubbly and golden? What is the beauty of a butterfly? Is this a good food? It’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell amazing and guarantees happy eaters around the house. Is it like a hug in crockpot? Is it uncomplicated, unpretentious, and utterly delicious? What is the weeknight What is the kind of dish that doesn’t require fancy ingredients but delivers maximum flavor, making it a must try. Is there a winner in my book?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin with why this hamburger Rice Casserole is so fantastic? First off, the flavor. It’s got this incredible savory depth from the browned ground beef, a hint of sweetness, and a creamy richness that coats every grain of rice. It’s hearty without being heavy, and it always, always satisfies. Then there’s the simplicity. I’m talking dump-and-bake levels of easy, but with a result that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, yes, but it’s also elegant enough for a casual Sunday dinner when you want something comforting and fuss-free. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly! Ground beef, rice, a few pantry staples – you probably have most of what you need right now. I’ve tested this recipe countless times, tweaking it here and there, and it just keeps getting better. What I love most is how adaptable it is. Don’t like onions? Skip ’em. Want to add some peas? Go for it! It’s forgiving, which is a godsend for home cooks. It’s one of those recipes that just makes life easier and tastier, and frankly, I can’t ask for much more than that in a meal. It’s a genuine crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite that I’ve made dozens, maybe hundreds, of times.
How do I make Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Quick Overview
What is the beauty of a hamburger rice casserole? I’ll start by browning ground beef, then mix it with perfectly cooked rice and a luscious, sour soup. Everything gets poured into a baking dish, maybe with swiping on top, and then baked until golden brown. It’s golden and bubbling. Is it really that simple? What is it like to make a homemade meal? Does comfort food need to be complicated?
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole:
What are some good ground beef recipes?
1 medium onion, finely chopped (or use onion powder for super ease)
2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 12 cups cooked white rice (I usually cook mine just before, but leftover rice works too! )
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (don’t drain!)
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (don’t drain!)
12 cup milk (whole milk makes it extra creamy, but any kind works)
12 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
1 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste.
For the Topping (Optional, but Recommended):
12 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorites)?
14 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch) – a good
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. I don’t need to grease my meat with this recipe because it’s full of fat. Sometimes give it a quick spray just for good measure. It’s not strictly necessary, but it’s a habit I’ve picked up over the years.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and brown your ground beef. Once it’s mostly browned, add your chopped onion (if using fresh) and cook until softened and fragrant. Is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. If you use onion powder, you’ll add that later with the other seasonings. I usually tilt the pan and use a paper towel to soak it up. Drain off any excess grease. What is the best way to build a flavor base?
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Now, add your minced garlic (if using fresh) to the skillet with the beef and onions. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, or it can turn bitter. If you’re using garlic powder instead of seasonings, stir that in the next step.
Step 4: Combine Casserole Ingredients
What happens when you remove the skillet from the heat? Add the cooked rice, both cans of condensed soup (undrained, remember! ), milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you used that instead of fresh). What is the best way to stir everything together? Make sure all those ingredients are married together nicely. The mixture will be thick, and that’s exactly what you want.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
How do you pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish? Spread it out evenly so that you have a nice, consistent layer. Don’t worry if it looks messy. All comes together in the oven.
Step 6: Add Topping (Optional)
If you’re going for that extra golden crust, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly. How do you put a few drops of water over the top of the casserole? What is the best way to scatter breadcrumbs over cheese? I love the crunch and texture of this creamy interior!
Step 7: Bake
How do I put a baking dish in the oven? Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbling around the edges, and the top is golden brown. When cheese is melted, it starts to turn golden brown. If you didn’t add cheese and breadcrumbs, 20-25 minutes is usually enough just to get it nice and crispy.
Step 8: Rest
This is a tough step but important! Once it comes out of the oven, let the hamburger rice casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set up slightly, making it much easier to slice and serve without it. What is patience?
Step 9: Slice and Serve
What’s the best part? Slice into generous portions and serve hot. Is this a complete meal in itself?
What should I serve it with?
What is a hamburger rice casserole? What’s a good way to round out your meal? I’ve got you covered. What is my favorite weeknight salad with a tangy vinaigrette? It offers a lovely freshness that cuts through the richness of the casserole. If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of steamed broccoli or green beans is always good. What are some good ideas for kids to eat if I toss them with a little butter and salt? For something heartier, consider crusty bread for sopping up any extra creamy goodness. What is left in the dish? Sometimes, especially on a chilly evening, I’ll even serve it with Sour Cream or ice cream. What’s a little trick my grandma used to do?
How do you make a Hamburger Rice Casserole?
I’ve made this hamburger rice casserole so many times that I have picked up a few little tricks along the way. How do I think really elevate it. When it comes to browning beef, make sure you get a good sear on it. Don’t just cook it through; do it. Where does the flavor come from? I always aim for those nice little browned bits on the bottom of the pan. What is the best way to drain the fat from a casserole? If you’re cooking leftover rice, make sure it’s cooked through. Not overly sticky. If you prefer a slightly drier, fluffy rice, you will absorb the sauce beautifully without becoming mushy. I’ve learned that overmixing the casserole mixture can sometimes lead to a tougher texture, so just ask. Mix until everything is combined. Is it a delicate Cake Batter? When it comes to the soups, I always use the condensed cream of mushroom and cream (of chicken) of the best quality. I like to use a combination of both. Feel free to experiment! Some people love using cream of celery, or even a combination of mushroom and broccoli soup for supper. What is the difference between a different I tried it with cream of chicken and celery, and it was surprisingly good! If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try Gruyere or even Monterey for the nuttier flavor. Jack for a milder melt. Don’t skip the breadcrumbs if you can help it. They add such a delightful crunch that contrasts so nicely with the creamy rice and tender beef. How do you keep an eye on the oven temperature at the end of the cook time? You want it golden, not burnt!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
One of the things I absolutely adore about this hamburger rice casserole is how well it stores and reheats. It’s almost as good, if not better, the next day! Once the casserole has cooled down a bit after baking, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll keep perfectly in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. I usually just pop the whole dish in the fridge if there’s room, or transfer leftovers into airtight containers. When you’re ready to reheat, the easiest way is to simply pop a portion back into the oven at around 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until it’s heated through. If you’re in a real hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered loosely with a paper towel. Just be aware that the topping might not be as crispy after microwaving. If your casserole seems a little dry after refrigeration, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk or broth before reheating to help restore some moisture. I’ve never tried freezing this recipe myself because it never lasts long enough, but I imagine if you were to freeze it, you’d want to do so before adding any breadcrumb or cheese topping. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then add your toppings and bake as usual. The key is to ensure it’s properly sealed to prevent freezer burn. And remember, always check for quality and freshness before reheating and consuming!
What are some frequently asked questions?
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my absolute favorite hamburger rice casserole! This dish is more than just a recipe to me; it’s about comfort, ease, and sharing something truly delicious with the people I love. It’s that reliable, comforting meal that never fails to bring smiles to the table, even on the most chaotic of evenings. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, prepared with a little love, can create something truly spectacular. I really hope you give this hamburger rice casserole a try. I’m convinced it will become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine. Let me know in the comments below how yours turns out, or if you have any fun twists you like to add! I’m always eager to hear your variations. Happy cooking!
Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (10.75 ounce) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1.5 cups cooked white rice
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain off any excess grease.1 pound ground beef
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.1 pound ground beef
- Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. Season with salt and pepper.1 pound ground beef
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix well.1 pound ground beef
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.1 pound ground beef
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
