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Savory Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

savory cheesy hamburger rice casserole - featured image

A comforting and easy weeknight casserole combining seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for a cheesy, hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80% lean preferred)
  • 1 cup (190 g) long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (475 ml) beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup (115 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (113 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the rice: In a medium pot, combine 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice with 2 cups beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Set aside.
  3. Brown the ground beef: While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. Season the beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and cook for 3 more minutes to blend flavors.
  6. Combine rice and beef mixture: In a large bowl, gently fold the cooked rice into the beef mixture. Add sour cream and mix until creamy and well combined.
  7. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the rice and beef mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the layer.
  8. Spread the remaining rice and beef mixture on top of the cheese layer, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

Drain excess fat after browning beef to avoid a greasy casserole. Slightly undercook rice if fresh, as it will finish cooking in the casserole. Watch cheese closely in the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning; tent with foil if needed. Let casserole rest before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy casserole, hamburger casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, ground beef recipe