Hamburger Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish – a hearty, satisfying combination of ground beef, rice, and a variety of flavorful ingredients that blend together perfectly. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Best of all, it's easy to make and highly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste buds! Read on to discover the step-by-step guide to making this delicious casserole, along with tips, variations, and serving ideas. Let’s get started!

What is Hamburger Rice Casserole?
Hamburger Rice Casserole is a savory dish that combines ground beef (hamburger), rice, vegetables, and often cheese into a baked, one-dish meal. The ingredients are cooked together to create a cohesive and flavorful casserole that is perfect for a cozy night in. The dish is great because it can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, making it a versatile and popular option in many households.
Ingredients List for Hamburger Rice Casserole
To create a delicious Hamburger Rice Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef (hamburger)
- 1 cup of uncooked white rice (long grain or basmati)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped, any color)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, with juice)
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 ½ cups of beef broth (or water)
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese (optional but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Additional Optional Ingredients:
- 1 cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- 1 can of corn (drained)
- 1 cup of mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- A dash of hot sauce or chili flakes (if you like a little heat)
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about Hamburger Rice Casserole is how versatile it is. You can easily swap ingredients based on your dietary needs, preferences, or what you have in your kitchen. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:
- Ground Meat Alternatives: If you don't have ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute.
- Rice Variations: Swap white rice for brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. You can also use wild rice or a rice blend for added texture.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add different vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or spinach. You can even substitute the bell pepper with poblano peppers for a slightly smoky flavor.
- Cheese-Free Version: If you're dairy-free or just don't like cheese, you can omit the cheese and add more seasonings for flavor. Dairy-free cheeses also work well if you're looking for an alternative.
- Sauce Options: Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s get into the fun part: cooking! Follow these simple instructions to make a flavorful Hamburger Rice Casserole that everyone will love.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Measure out your rice, and shred the cheddar cheese if you’re using it. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Brown the meat for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the ground beef is browned and drained, push it to the side of the skillet. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir the meat and vegetables together.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Liquid
To the skillet, add the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the seasonings. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), the cream of mushroom soup, and the beef broth (or water). Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Stir in the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the mixture, stirring to combine. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the casserole mixture. If you’re adding any optional vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms, now is the time to mix them in.
Step 6: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 7: Bake (Optional)
If you prefer a baked casserole with a crispy top, transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done cooking, either on the stove or in the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the dish easier to slice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Not Draining the Beef: Always drain excess fat from the ground beef after browning. Too much fat can make the casserole greasy.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Stick to the measurements for liquid (beef broth and tomatoes). Too much liquid can result in soggy rice, while too little can leave it undercooked.
- Skipping the Cheese: Even though cheese is optional, it adds a rich, creamy layer that takes the casserole to the next level. If you're a cheese lover, don’t skimp on it!
- Overcooking the Rice: Keep an eye on the cooking time when simmering the casserole. Overcooking can turn the rice mushy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Now that your Hamburger Rice Casserole is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it. Presentation may not be the top priority for a homey casserole, but a little effort can go a long way. Here are a few tips for serving and presenting your dish:
How to Serve Hamburger Rice Casserole
Serve the casserole in individual bowls or plates, garnished with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. If you baked the casserole in a dish, you can simply cut it into squares and serve as individual portions. A nice side salad or some crusty bread makes a perfect accompaniment to this hearty meal.
Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Rice Casserole
- Garnish with Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro can give your casserole a vibrant, colorful look.
- Top with Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on each portion adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Serve with a Side Salad: A bright, refreshing salad balances out the casserole's richness and creates a visually appealing contrast on the plate.
- Bread Crumb Topping: For a crispy texture, sprinkle bread crumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.
Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe Tips
- Use High-Quality Ground Beef: For the best flavor, choose ground beef that’s 80% lean. If you prefer leaner meat, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet to prevent it from drying out.
- Don't Forget to Taste: Always taste your casserole mixture before baking or simmering. You can adjust seasoning levels as needed at this stage.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble the ingredients in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer-Friendly: Hamburger Rice Casserole freezes well. Prepare the dish, allow it to cool, and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use instant rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Instant rice cooks much faster, so reduce the simmering time to around 10 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
Can I make Hamburger Rice Casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and Worcestershire sauce you use are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of these products.
How long does Hamburger Rice Casserole last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, Hamburger Rice Casserole can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven.
Conclusion
Hamburger Rice Casserole is a perfect go-to recipe for a cozy family meal or to feed a crowd. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it today and enjoy the satisfying, comforting flavors of a homemade casserole!
Looking for more delicious recipes? Stay tuned for more kitchen inspiration!
PrintHamburger Rice Casserole Recipe
This Hamburger Rice Casserole recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish made with ground beef, rice, vegetables, and melted cheese. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s perfect for weeknights. Packed with savory ingredients, it’s a satisfying one-pan meal everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice (uncooked)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef with onions until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, vegetables, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes or until rice is cooked.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until cheese melts.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice for white rice for a healthier option.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- For a creamier casserole, add ½ cup of sour cream to the mixture before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
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