Simple Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe for Busy Nights

Simple Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Food 🧀🍚🍔

1. Introduction

Are you searching for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal to feed your family on busy weeknights? Look no further! This cheesy hamburger rice casserole recipe is the perfect solution. It combines simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and plenty of cheese to create a hearty and delicious dish that everyone will love. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it also requires minimal effort, making it ideal for those evenings when you’re short on time. This easy hamburger rice bake will quickly become a family favorite.

Finished Simple Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

This hamburger rice dish is designed to be both convenient and crowd-pleasing. With just a few simple steps, you can have a warm, comforting casserole on the table in no time. If you’re looking for other quick and easy dinner options, you might enjoy this Simple Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe, ready in minutes! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Get ready to enjoy a cheesy, savory delight that will make weeknight dinners a whole lot easier. Embrace the simplicity and flavor of this fantastic cheesy hamburger rice casserole!

2. Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious cheesy hamburger rice casserole, gather the following ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – readily available ingredients combine to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

3. Equipment

Having the right equipment on hand will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Large skillet
  • 9×13 inch casserole dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own cheesy hamburger rice casserole. Each step is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the beef is fully cooked to guarantee a safe and delicious cheesy hamburger rice casserole.

Ground beef being cooked in a skillet for Simple Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole recipe.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (undrained), and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This easy hamburger rice bake becomes even simpler when all the components are properly mixed. If you’re looking for another easy recipe for busy nights, consider this Quick Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe.

Mixing cooked rice and diced tomatoes for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour half of the beef and rice mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the remaining beef and rice mixture over the cheese layer. This layering technique ensures every bite of your hamburger rice dish is packed with flavor. For an extra touch, consider adding a layer of cream cheese for added richness.

Layering beef and rice mixture in a casserole dish for Simple Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving this quick cheesy casserole. The aroma alone will make everyone eager to dig in!

Casserole dish ready for baking with cheese topping being placed into the oven.

5. Tips and Variations

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some tips and variations to customize your cheesy hamburger rice casserole:

  • For a spicier kick, add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas to boost the nutritional value.
  • To make it healthier, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
  • Top with crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for added texture.
  • Explore other variations and get inspired by recipes like this one on Allrecipes for Hamburger Jazz, which adds a unique twist.

6. Serving Suggestions

This cheesy hamburger rice casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Consider serving it with:

  • A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette dressing
  • Steamed broccoli or green beans
  • Garlic bread

If you’re looking for something to serve *before* the casserole, how about some Easy Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?

7. Storage Instructions

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for quicker reheating. Make sure it is heated through properly.

8. Nutritional Information

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

  • Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving
  • Protein: 25-30g
  • Fat: 20-25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30-35g

9. Other Delicious Dinner Ideas

If you enjoyed this casserole, you might also like these quick and easy dinner recipes:

If you’re really stuck for inspiration, check out our Dinner and Lunch recipe categories for even more ideas!

9. Conclusion

This simple cheesy hamburger rice casserole is a fantastic addition to your weeknight meal rotation. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The combination of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese creates a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy families. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this easy hamburger rice bake and make dinner time a breeze! This hamburger rice dish is sure to become a staple in your home.

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Finished Simple Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Simple Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe for Busy Nights

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Discover the simplicity and comfort of this easy cheesy hamburger rice casserole, perfect for busy weeknight dinners. With ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and lots of cheese, this dish is a family favorite that requires minimal effort.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat and drain excess grease. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ground beef mixture, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (undrained), and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well.
  3. Pour half of the beef and rice mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the remaining beef and rice mixture over the cheese.
  4. Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.
  • Use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor.
  • Add bell peppers, corn, or peas for extra nutrition.
  • For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
  • Top with crushed tortilla chips for added texture.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Omnivore

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 425 Kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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