If you’re craving a warm, filling dinner that doesn’t cost a fortune or require fancy ingredients, hamburger rice casserole is exactly what you need. This classic comfort-food recipe has been a staple in American kitchens for decades—and for good reason. It combines simple pantry ingredients like ground beef, rice, and cheese into one cozy, oven-baked dish that feeds a family with minimal effort.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, stretching groceries on a budget, or just want something hearty and satisfying, this hamburger rice casserole checks all the boxes. It’s easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and loved by both kids and adults. Let’s break down everything you need to know to make the best version at home.
Table of Contents
Why Hamburger Rice Casserole Is a Family Favorite
Hamburger rice casserole has stood the test of time because it solves everyday cooking problems:
- Affordable: Ground beef and rice are budget staples.
- Filling: High-protein and carb-balanced for lasting fullness.
- One-Dish Meal: Protein, starch, and comfort all in one pan.
- Beginner-Friendly: No advanced cooking skills required.
According to guidance from the USDA, balanced meals that combine protein and grains help keep families satisfied longer—exactly what this casserole does.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients you may already have:
- Ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
- Long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- Onion (yellow or white)
- Garlic
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Beef broth
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, pepper, paprika
Why These Ingredients Work
- Rice absorbs flavor and stretches the dish.
- Cream soup adds creaminess without extra steps.
- Cheese brings richness and that irresistible golden top.
How to Make Hamburger Rice Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until browned. Drain excess grease.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole
In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and half the cheese. Add cooked beef.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer to a greased casserole dish, cover tightly with foil, and bake at 375°F for 45–50 minutes.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Uncover, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake 10–15 more minutes until bubbly.
Pro Tips for the Best Hamburger Rice Casserole
- Cover tightly so the rice cooks evenly.
- Use broth instead of water for deeper flavor.
- Let it rest 5–10 minutes before serving to set properly.
Variations and Substitutions
One reason hamburger rice casserole is so popular is its flexibility:
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Add mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra melt.
Healthy Swap
Use ground turkey and brown rice (add ¼ cup extra liquid).
Veggie-Loaded
Mix in frozen peas, carrots, or corn before baking.
Tex-Mex Style
Add taco seasoning and top with pepper jack cheese.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Tips
Make-Ahead
Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze fully baked casserole for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat covered at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
What to Serve with Hamburger Rice Casserole
This casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Simple green salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
If you love hearty ground beef dinners like this hamburger rice casserole, you’ll also enjoy this sloppy joe casserole, which delivers the same cozy, budget-friendly comfort with a bold, saucy twist.
FAQ: Hamburger Rice Casserole
1. Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?
Yes, but reduce liquid by half and shorten baking time to 25–30 minutes.
2. Why is my rice still crunchy?
The casserole wasn’t covered tightly or needed more liquid.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes—cook on low for 4–5 hours with uncooked rice and extra broth.
4. Is hamburger rice casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. It freezes and reheats very well.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream soup and confirm broth is GF.
Conclusion
There’s a reason hamburger rice casserole has remained a beloved classic for generations. It’s affordable, comforting, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry family without stress. If you try this recipe, bookmark it, share it, or sign up for our newsletter for more easy, budget-friendly comfort meals you’ll actually want to make again.
Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a casserole dish.
- Brown ground beef with onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix beef, uncooked rice, soup, broth, and half the cheese in a bowl.
- Transfer to casserole dish, cover tightly, and bake 45–50 minutes.
- Uncover, add remaining cheese, and bake 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Looking for another filling, family-style casserole? This John Wayne casserole is packed with beef, cheese, and Southwestern flavors and is perfect for busy weeknights.