Hamburger & Rice Casserole

Craving a comforting, one-pan meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying? Look no further than Hamburger & Rice Casserole! This classic dish is packed with savory ground beef, tender rice, and a delicious blend of seasonings that make every bite a total crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug, and it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping a family-friendly meal, this casserole has you covered!

This dish is a total lifesaver when you’re short on time but craving something filling and flavorful. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a hearty meal that everyone will love. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!

Why You’ll Love Hamburger & Rice Casserole

Quick and Easy

This casserole is simple to make, with minimal prep time and straightforward steps. You can have it ready in just about an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want to enjoy a homemade meal without too much fuss.

Hearty and Filling

With ground beef, rice, and a mix of savory spices, this dish is incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of comfort food that will keep you full and happy for hours!

One-Pan Wonder

Everything cooks together in one dish, so cleanup is a breeze. No need to dirty multiple pans or worry about juggling different cooking times—just pop it all into the oven and let it work its magic.

Customizable

Feel free to make this casserole your own! You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences. Add some extra veggies, switch up the spices, or top it with cheese for an extra gooey, melty finish.

Budget-Friendly

This recipe uses pantry staples, making it a great option for anyone looking to stretch their grocery budget. It’s an affordable meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients

Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this casserole so flavorful and comforting:

For the Casserole:

• Ground Beef: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice or brown rice works perfectly, absorbing all the tasty juices and flavors from the beef.
• Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings that aromatic, savory punch.
• Beef Broth: To keep the casserole moist and flavorful. You can also use chicken broth if you prefer.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds a little acidity and a rich base to the casserole.
• Cheese (optional): Shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy, melty topping.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Potassium: 500mg
• Calcium: 10% DV
• Iron: 20% DV

(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Instructions

Let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering casserole!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Rice and Liquids

Stir in the rice, beef broth, and tomato sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like (chili powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning all work wonderfully). Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb some of the flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese (Optional)

If you’re adding cheese, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve it as-is, or top with chopped herbs, a dollop of sour cream, or some hot sauce for an extra punch.

How to Serve Hamburger & Rice Casserole

With a Side Salad

Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty dish. A simple vinaigrette or ranch dressing works great!

With Garlic Bread

Serve with some warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the casserole sauce. It’s the perfect way to scoop up every last bit of flavor.

With Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies like carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers add some color and balance to the meal. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables complements the savory casserole beautifully.

As a Meal Prep Option

This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Additional Tips

Add Veggies

Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Try stirring in some frozen peas, bell peppers, or even spinach before baking. They’ll add color, texture, and nutrition to the casserole.

Use Brown Rice

If you prefer a whole-grain option, feel free to swap white rice for brown rice. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Make it Spicy

Add a little kick by stirring in some diced jalapeños or chili flakes for heat. A dash of hot sauce on top after baking works great too!

Leftovers and Storage

Leftover casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months if you want to make a double batch and enjoy it later!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Yes, ground turkey works great in this recipe for a leaner version. It will still be juicy and flavorful, especially with the seasonings and tomato sauce.

Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge overnight, then bake it when you’re ready to eat. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Q3: Can I use instant rice instead of regular rice?
A3: You can, but I recommend using regular long-grain rice for the best texture and flavor. Instant rice may not absorb the liquids the same way and could result in a mushier casserole.

Q4: How can I make this casserole more cheesy?
A4: If you love cheese, add a generous layer of shredded cheese both inside the casserole and on top. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both for extra gooeyness!

Q5: Can I freeze this casserole?
A5: Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake until hot.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
A6: Yes, feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic before adding to the beef mixture.

Q7: How do I reheat leftovers?
A7: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Q8: Can I use a different type of meat?
A8: Yes, ground chicken or pork would work well in this casserole if you want to switch things up. They’ll still pair perfectly with the rice and seasonings.

Q9: Can I make this casserole spicier?
A9: Absolutely! Add chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.

Q10: What can I serve this casserole with?
A10: This casserole pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with so many sides.

Conclusion

This Hamburger & Rice Casserole is the perfect mix of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a simple family meal, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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