When you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that brings the whole family to the table, few dishes deliver like a Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a nostalgic favorite with all the flavors of home.
Perfect for busy weeknights, make-ahead dinners, or even freezing for later, this casserole is comforting, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ One-pot wonder – less cleanup, all the flavor
✅ Kid-approved – cheesy, meaty, and satisfying
✅ Perfect for leftovers or meal prep
✅ Flexible and customizable – use what you have
✅ Freezer-friendly – great for batch cooking
Whether you’re a busy parent, beginner cook, or just craving something cozy, this casserole checks every box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor or leaner if preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (jasmine or long-grain works best)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar soup (10.5 oz)
- ½ cup sour cream (optional for added creaminess)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp dried parsley or thyme (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup frozen corn or peas
- ½ cup diced bell peppers
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for richness
- Red pepper flakes for heat
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or use an oven-safe skillet for fewer dishes.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until browned and cooked through. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Drain any excess fat.
3. Mix the Casserole Base
Stir in the uncooked rice, broth, cream soup, sour cream (if using), half the shredded cheese, and seasonings. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
4. Bake
Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir halfway through to prevent sticking.
5. Add More Cheese and Finish
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes for cleaner scoops.
Variations to Try
- Mexican Twist: Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with salsa and jalapeños.
- Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack cheese or stir in hot sauce.
- Low-Carb Version: Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice (reduce liquid slightly).
- Cream-Free: Skip sour cream and use more broth or a dairy-free alternative.
What to Serve With It
This casserole is a full meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- A green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Roasted veggies like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
- Pickles or a tangy cucumber salad for contrast
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth for moisture.
- Freeze before or after baking—wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. It’s warm, comforting, and full of down-home flavor—the perfect dish for feeding a hungry family, prepping for the week, or cozying up on a cold evening.
Whether you’re making it from scratch or tossing in leftovers from your fridge, this dish proves that simple can be spectacular.
One pan. Pure comfort. Endless possibilities. 🧀🍚🍽️