Ultimate Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole – Easy Weeknight Dinner Fix

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to wrap yourself in cozy comfort with a dish that smells like home and tastes like pure happiness? 🍲✨ Today, we’re diving into the heart of American home cooking with a recipe that’s stood the test of time — the Ultimate Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole! 🧀🍚 This dish has been passed around family dinner tables for generations, offering that satisfying balance of hearty beef, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese that just warms the soul. ❤️

It’s the perfect one-pan wonder for those busy weeknights when you need something easy, filling, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping leftovers for lunch, or simply craving a bite of nostalgia, this casserole checks all the boxes. 💪

So grab your skillet and a big spoon — we’re about to create a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece that’ll make everyone at the table ask for seconds. Let’s bring those classic flavors back to life!

---

Ingredients

🥩 For the Main Casserole

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

🧀 For the Cheesy Topping

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

---

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Brown the Beef:
   Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Flavor Base:
   Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This is where the aroma begins to fill your kitchen! 🏡
3. Incorporate Rice & Seasoning:
   Stir in the uncooked rice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the rice toast lightly in the beef mixture for about a minute — this adds a deep nutty flavor.
4. Add Liquids & Simmer:
   Pour in the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Let It Cook:
   Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Veggies (Optional):
   If using frozen vegetables, stir them in once the rice is nearly done. Let them warm through for 2–3 minutes.
7. Cheesy Finale:
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top, cover again, and let it melt for about 3–5 minutes. Once gooey and bubbling, remove from heat.
8. Garnish & Serve:
   Sprinkle with Parmesan and fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve hot right from the pan — that first spoonful of cheesy, beefy rice is pure joy! 😋

---

Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4–6

⚡ Calories per serving: ~480 kcal
🥩 Protein: 28 g
🍚 Carbohydrates: 40 g
🧀 Fat: 22 g
💧 Sodium: 780 mg
🌿 Fiber: 2 g

This dish is a comforting balance of carbs, protein, and cheesy goodness — a hearty meal that satisfies without being overly heavy. Pair it with a crisp side salad or steamed green beans for a complete dinner.

---

#EasyDinner
#CheesyCasserole
#ComfortFood
#WeeknightMeals
#FamilyFavorites
#HomemadeHappiness
#ClassicAmericanCooking

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️