Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving pure comfort in a casserole dish, you’ll fall in love with Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. It’s the perfect blend of tender ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, juicy tomatoes, soft rice, and a generous layer of gooey mozzarella that melts to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving a busy weeknight dinner or gathering friends for a casual meal, this recipe brings heartwarming flavors and nostalgia to the table every time. Get ready to dig into a classic that’s irresistibly cheesy, delightfully hearty, and fuss-free!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole comes together with just a handful of honest staples. Every ingredient has a job, whether it’s building a creamy base, adding bright color, or delivering the ultimate cheesy finish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef: Use a pound of ground beef for rich, meaty flavor and satisfying texture—make sure to brown it well to develop depth.
• Cream of mushroom soup: A can of this creamy soup lends a velvety sauce that brings all the casserole elements together.
• Diced tomatoes with juice: One (14.5 ounce) can, including the juice, brings tang, juiciness, and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
• Long grain white rice: Just half a cup is all you need; it cooks up fluffy in the sauce, soaking up every delicious bite.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Use three-quarters of a cup for a gooey, melted cheesy top that everyone will fight for.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget the basics—season to your preference, bringing out the best in every ingredient.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Begin by crumbling the ground beef into a large skillet. Set the skillet over medium-high heat and cook the beef, breaking it up with your spoon as you go, until it’s evenly browned and no longer pink. This step is essential for building that savory, crave-worthy flavor in your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. Once it’s browned, carefully drain off any extra grease.

Step 2: Add the Sauce and Rice

With the beef still in the skillet, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes (juice and all), and the uncooked long grain white rice. Give everything a good stir so the rice is well distributed and soaking up the liquids. This mixture will look a little soupy at first, but don’t worry— the rice will absorb all of those delicious flavors while it cooks.

Step 3: Simmer and Soften

Lower the heat so the mixture bubbles gently. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the rice becomes tender and the flavors blend together. Watch for the rice to reach that perfect, fluffy texture—taste a few grains to check for doneness before moving on.

Step 4: Broil with Cheese

When the rice is cooked, transfer the contents of the skillet into a casserole dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, completely covering the surface. Preheat the broiler in your oven, then slide the dish under it for just a few minutes. Keep a close eye; you want the cheese bubbly and golden, not burnt! When it’s perfectly melted and toasty, your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is ready.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Pull the casserole from the oven and, while it’s still piping hot, sprinkle salt and pepper to taste over the top. Serve right away for maximum cheesiness and flavor—every scoop is packed with saucy beef, tender rice, and stringy melted cheese!

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Bring even more color and flavor to your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole by finishing it with a scattering of chopped fresh parsley or green onions. A few delicate rings of finely sliced red onion or a handful of halved cherry tomatoes can also add a fresh and vibrant note to each serving.

Side Dishes

This casserole truly shines as a one-dish meal, but it’s even better with a side of crisp garlic bread, a mixed greens salad with a zippy vinaigrette, or steamed vegetables. These sides provide a bit of crunch and brightness to balance the warm, creamy richness of the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve this casserole family-style straight from the baking dish, or dress it up by dishing portions into individual ramekins for a dinner party. For a playful twist, spoon it onto crisp lettuce cups or over roasted bell pepper halves for easy handheld servings that are just as comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), simply scoop the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen a bit as it sits, making for a tasty lunch or easy dinner later in the week.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly! Once fully cooled, transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole dish tightly with foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To bring your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole back to life, reheat it in a 350°F oven (covered with foil) until warmed through—usually about 20–25 minutes. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?

Absolutely! While mozzarella creates that classic melty top, feel free to swap it for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda for a different flavor twist.

Is it possible to make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole with brown rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white, but keep in mind that it takes longer to cook and may need extra liquid. Check the rice for doneness and add splashes of water or broth if needed.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely—diced bell peppers, frozen peas, or chopped spinach make fantastic additions. Stir them in with the tomatoes so they cook down and blend into the casserole seamlessly.

What’s the best way to make this casserole ahead for a party?

Assemble the casserole up to the broiling stage, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the cheese and broil until bubbly and golden brown, so your Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is piping hot and freshly melted.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking or becoming mushy?

Make sure to stir the casserole during the stovetop simmer, and check the rice frequently as it cooks. Using long grain white rice helps ensure a fluffier texture, while avoiding overcooking keeps it from turning mushy.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole finds a cozy spot at your table, just like it has at mine. It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing classic that’s impossible to resist, and I can’t wait for you to take that first steamy, cheesy bite. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request at your house!

Print