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Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

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A hearty, comforting one-pan casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, tender rice, gooey cheese, and veggies. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners—this easy recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred, 80/20 for extra flavor)
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine; brown rice works with increased cooking time)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 2 cups low sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (fire-roasted optional)
  • 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked optional)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
  • Hot sauce (to taste, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Dice onion, mince garlic, and measure rice, broth, and seasonings. Rinse rice under cold water in a mesh strainer.
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up. Add diced onion and garlic; cook until beef is browned and onions are translucent (about 7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in rinsed rice, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes to toast spices and rice.
  4. Pour in beef broth and drained diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, scraping up any stuck bits. Mix in frozen peas or mixed vegetables.
  5. Stir in 1 cup cheddar and 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.
  6. Cover skillet tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes (or transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover). Rice should be tender and most liquid absorbed.
  7. If rice isn’t fully cooked, add 1/4 cup broth, re-cover, and bake another 5-10 minutes.
  8. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese evenly on top. Return to oven uncovered and bake 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy top, watching closely.
  9. Let casserole rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions.

Notes

For extra creaminess, stir in sour cream before adding the final cheese layer. Use freshly grated cheese for best melt. Brown rice requires extra broth and longer baking. Add any veggies you like—corn, zucchini, spinach, carrots, or mushrooms. Casserole tastes even better the next day. For gluten-free, double-check broth and seasonings. For low-carb, swap rice for cauliflower rice and reduce broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy hamburger rice casserole, ground beef casserole, one pan dinner, comfort food, easy family meal, rice casserole, kid friendly, freezer friendly, gluten free option

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