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- 1 pound ground beef - 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Fresh parsley When I make Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, I love its simple yet tasty ingredients. Ground beef serves as the main protein. Long-grain rice adds heartiness and texture. Diced tomatoes with green chilies bring a nice kick and moisture. Seasonings really boost the flavor. I use chili powder for warmth and cumin for a rich, earthy taste. A bit of olive oil helps sauté the onions and garlic, enhancing the dish's depth. For a fresh touch, I often add parsley as a garnish. This adds color, and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish. Feel free to skip it, but it’s a nice extra! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Sauté onions and garlic: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns soft and clear. This step adds a sweet flavor to your dish. Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1 more minute until you smell the garlic. 2. Brown the ground beef: Next, add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Season it with 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is brown and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there's extra fat, drain it away to keep your casserole light. 3. Combine rice, tomatoes, and beef broth: Stir in 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (drained), and 2 cups of beef broth. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it's boiling, lower the heat. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This will cook the rice and soak up all the tasty flavors. 4. Stir in cheese and transfer to baking dish: After 15 minutes, check if the rice is tender. If it is, remove the skillet from the heat. Mix in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts. Then, pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. 5. Bake until golden and bubbly: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, add some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color! To make sure your rice is cooked just right, follow a few simple steps. First, use long-grain rice, as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. When you add the rice to the skillet with the beef, let it simmer with the broth and tomatoes. This helps the rice soak up all the yummy flavors. To avoid a dry casserole, keep an eye on the cooking time. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, but check if the liquid is absorbed. If it seems dry, add a splash more broth. This keeps the dish moist and tasty. Want to kick up the flavor? You can add extra spices to the mix! Consider adding more chili powder or a dash of paprika for a smoky flavor. You could also throw in some chopped bell peppers or corn for a fun twist. Each addition brings its own flair to the dish. For cheese, I recommend using sharp cheddar for a bold taste. But feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra creaminess and a bit of heat. Blending different cheeses can create a rich, gooey layer on top. Pair your casserole with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the rich dish nicely. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting meal. If you want something lighter, consider steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. They add color and nutrients to your plate. Pro Tips Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and make the casserole healthier without sacrificing flavor. Add Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and color. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor twist. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. It can be baked straight from the refrigerator with just a few extra minutes of cooking time. {{image_2}} You can switch the ground beef for other proteins. I often use ground turkey or chicken. They have less fat but still taste great. Just cook them the same way as the beef. If you want a meatless option, plant-based grounds work well. They mimic the taste and texture of meat. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish! If you want to change up the rice, there are good choices. Brown rice adds fiber and a nutty flavor. Quinoa is another healthy option. It cooks quickly and packs protein. For a low-carb meal, try cauliflower rice. Just sauté it lightly before mixing it in. It keeps the dish light yet filling. Cheese is a big part of this casserole. You can use other types if you like. Mozzarella gives a nice stretch, while pepper jack adds spice. If you need a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheese. Many brands melt well and taste good. You can easily find these in most stores. Choose what you love to make your dish even better! After making Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, you can store leftovers easily. First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Then, place the casserole in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. It will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If you want to keep the casserole longer, freezing is a great option. Cut the casserole into single servings. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. The casserole can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy it later, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For the best flavor and texture, reheat your casserole in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 to 25 minutes until hot. If you use a microwave, put a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 2 to 3 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overheating. Enjoy your meal just like fresh! Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. To do this, cook the casserole up to the baking step. After mixing in the cheese, place it in a greased dish. Cover it with foil and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. This method saves time and makes weeknight dinners easier. If you want a different protein, you have options. Ground turkey or chicken works well. They have a lighter flavor but still taste great. For a vegetarian option, try plant-based meat alternatives. You can also use lentils or black beans for a hearty texture. These swaps keep your meal tasty and cater to various diets. To add some heat, consider these simple tips. First, increase the chili powder in the recipe. You can add a teaspoon more for a nice kick. Another option is to mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. If you love hot sauce, drizzle it on before serving. These changes will spice up your casserole and excite your taste buds! This blog post covered how to make a delicious Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole. We explored key ingredients like ground beef, rice, and diced tomatoes. I shared tips for perfecting texture and enhancing flavor. You learned about easy variations and storage techniques to keep your dish fresh. In summary, this dish is versatile and simple to make. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients. Your next meal can be both tasty and quick to prepare!

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

A hearty and cheesy casserole made with ground beef, rice, and topped with cheddar cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (15 oz)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • optional fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet and season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor.
Keyword beef, casserole, cheesy