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Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

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This cheesy hamburger rice casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dinner made with ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and plenty of melty cheddar cheese. It comes together quickly with pantry staples and is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 3 cups cooked white rice (day-old or leftover is best)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 tbsp butter (for greasing dish)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in canned diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add onion powder, garlic powder, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and taste for seasoning.
  6. Stir in cooked rice and beef broth until well combined. If rice is very dry, add up to 1/4 cup more broth.
  7. Fold in half (1 cup) of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are lightly golden. For a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Use day-old rice for best texture. Shred your own cheese for optimal melt. Add extra veggies like peas, corn, or bell peppers for more nutrition. For gluten-free, check labels on broth and Worcestershire sauce. Casserole can be made ahead, refrigerated, or frozen for later. Let rest before serving for neat slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy hamburger rice casserole, ground beef casserole, easy family dinner, comfort food, rice casserole, kid friendly, make ahead, freezer friendly

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/cheesy-hamburger-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-family-dinner-idea/