If you’re craving a simple, hearty, and comforting meal that comes together with minimal effort, the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the perfect choice. This one-dish meal combines savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, tender rice, and melty mozzarella cheese for a dish that’s both satisfying and family-friendly. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is flavorful, filling, and sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
The key to this casserole’s success lies in its combination of creamy and cheesy textures with savory flavors. The cream of mushroom soup adds a rich, velvety consistency that ties together the beef, rice, and tomatoes, while the mozzarella cheese provides a gooey, cheesy topping that makes every bite irresistible. The canned diced tomatoes contribute a subtle tang and slight sweetness, balancing the richness of the beef and soup.
This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also versatile. You can swap the mozzarella for cheddar or Colby Jack for different flavor profiles, add vegetables such as bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition, or use brown rice for a nuttier taste. The result is a satisfying, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- ½ cup long grain white rice
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the diced tomatoes and their juice. Stir well to create a smooth, flavorful mixture.
- Add the uncooked rice to the soup and tomato mixture. Stir until the rice is evenly coated. This will allow the rice to cook fully in the oven while absorbing the flavors of the beef and sauce.
- Pour the beef into the baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Pour the rice, soup, and tomato mixture over the beef, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed and submerged in the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This cheese layer will melt and form a golden, bubbly topping while baking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
Tips and Variations
- For extra flavor, add ½ teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder to the beef while cooking.
- Mix in vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers to increase nutrition and color.
- Use cheddar or Colby Jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a sharper flavor.
- Brown rice can be used instead of white rice, but increase the cooking time slightly or pre-cook the rice for best results.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare, hearty, and full of flavor. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, tangy diced tomatoes, tender rice, and melty cheese makes for a satisfying, family-friendly meal. Its versatility allows for ingredient swaps and additions, ensuring it can be adapted to suit your taste and available ingredients. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this casserole delivers delicious, comforting results every time.
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Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole – Comfort Food Made Easy
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3-4 servings
Description
Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a simple, comforting dish with ground beef, rice, creamy mushroom soup, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese—perfect for a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- ½ cup long grain white rice
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with juice, and rice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, and rice is cooked through.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use leftover rice to reduce cooking time.
- Add chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for 1-2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake as directed when ready to serve. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. - Can I add vegetables?
Yes, diced bell peppers, peas, carrots, or mushrooms can be added to increase nutrition and flavor. - Can I use different cheese?
Yes, cheddar, Colby Jack, or a mix of cheeses works well in place of mozzarella. - Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. - What sides go well with this casserole?
Serve with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to complete the meal.