Name: Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488857H9M41S
Total time: PT-488857H9M41S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Ground beef; Cooked white or brown rice; Onion (chopped); Garlic (minced); Cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar soup; Milk; Shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper; Paprika or Italian seasoning (optional); Olive oil or butter (for sautéing); Optional toppings: parsley, crushed crackers, extra cheese

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Cheesy hamburger rice casserole is one of those classic comfort meals I love turning to when I need something hearty, simple, and totally satisfying. It’s packed with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, gooey cheese, and a creamy base that pulls everything together. Whether I’m feeding the family or prepping leftovers for the week, this casserole always delivers warm, cozy flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this casserole because it’s the kind of no-fuss, budget-friendly dish that keeps everyone happy and full. It uses ingredients I usually already have in my pantry and fridge, and it all comes together in one baking dish. I can easily switch up the seasonings or mix in veggies to keep things interesting. Best of all, it reheats like a dream—making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Cooked white or brown rice
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Cream of mushroom or cream of cheddar soup
Milk
Shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper
Paprika or Italian seasoning (optional)
Olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
Optional toppings: parsley, crushed crackers, or extra cheese

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet, I heat a bit of oil and cook the chopped onion until soft, then add the garlic and stir until fragrant.
I add the ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, and any spices I’m using.
Once the beef is fully cooked, I stir in the cooked rice, soup, milk, and half of the shredded cheese until everything is well combined.
I pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
I sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and cover the dish with foil.
I bake for about 20–25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
I let it rest for a few minutes before serving and sometimes garnish it with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

This recipe is easy to customize based on what I have or what I’m craving:

I add frozen peas, corn, or green beans for a full one-dish meal
I swap the soup for cream of chicken or cheddar for different flavors
I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
I stir in diced tomatoes or salsa for a Tex-Mex twist
I top it with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven. For the oven, I cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. I also freeze individual portions wrapped tightly—just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice in this casserole?

I don’t recommend it. I always use pre-cooked rice to ensure the texture is just right and the casserole bakes evenly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the casserole ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. I add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s going in cold.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is my favorite for flavor and melt, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend also work great.

Is there a way to make this lighter?

I use ground turkey, low-fat soup, and reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories while keeping the flavor.

Can I make this casserole spicy?

Absolutely. I add chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to give it some heat.

Conclusion

Cheesy hamburger rice casserole is one of those dependable, comforting meals I turn to when I want something filling and easy. It’s warm, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, perfect for feeding a hungry group or just keeping dinner simple and satisfying. Whether I’m enjoying it fresh from the oven or reheating leftovers, this casserole always feels like a cozy classic.