This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is one of the most comforting, budget-friendly, and family-approved dinners you can make. It’s warm, cheesy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying — the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table instantly. With simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, broth, and cheese, this casserole delivers classic homestyle flavor without requiring complicated steps or expensive ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, meal prep, or moments when you want a cozy dish that feels like a hug in every bite.
This recipe has become a huge hit across the USA because it’s affordable, filling, and easy to customize. It’s a casserole that stretches ingredients far, feeds a whole family, and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re cooking for kids, teens, or adults, this dinner is always a winner. You can keep it mild and simple or spice it up — the base is extremely versatile.
From the soft, perfectly cooked rice to the savory beef and melty cheese on top, every spoonful is rich, flavorful, and comforting. No complicated sauces, no heavy prep, and no stress — just a delicious, reliable dish that saves time and satisfies cravings. If you’re searching for a dinner recipe that’s easy, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to be loved by everyone, this Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole will quickly become part of your weekly rotation.
⭐ Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
⭐ How to Make Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Step 1 – Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Step 2 – Add Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 3 – Season the Beef
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well to coat the beef evenly with flavor.
Step 4 – Add the Rice
Pour the uncooked rice directly into the skillet. Stir to combine the rice with the seasoned beef mixture.
Step 5 – Add Liquid
Add beef broth (or water) and stir. Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
Step 6 – Cook Until Rice Is Tender
Cover with a lid and cook for about 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs all the liquid and becomes tender.
Step 7 – Add the Cheese
Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and broil for 3–5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Step 8 – Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
⭐ Cooking Notes for Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole
For perfectly cooked rice, avoid lifting the lid during the first 15 minutes — the trapped steam is necessary for even cooking. Long-grain white rice works best because it stays fluffy; short grain becomes sticky and Jasmine rice becomes softer. If the mixture dries out too quickly, add 1/2 cup broth. If the rice is still firm by the end of cooking, cover the pan again and let it rest for 5 minutes with the heat off. For richer flavor, use beef broth instead of water.
Sautéing the onions until lightly golden adds deeper flavor. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives a creamier topping. Cooking the beef thoroughly before adding rice ensures the casserole remains non-greasy and evenly flavored.
⭐ Variations
1. Mexican Hamburger Rice Casserole
Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with pepper jack cheese.
2. Creamy Mushroom Version
Add cream of mushroom soup or sautéed mushrooms to the mixture.
3. Cheesy Broccoli Hamburger Rice
Fold steamed broccoli into the casserole before adding cheese.
4. Spicy Cajun Hamburger Rice
Season with Cajun seasoning and add diced bell peppers.
5. Tomato-Based Version
Add a can of diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for a richer flavor.
⭐ Expert Tips
Use lean beef for best texture. Season in layers for deeper flavor. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving — this thickens the rice. Add cheese only at the end so it doesn’t dry out. For meal prep, undercook the rice slightly to avoid mushiness when reheating.
⭐ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using minute rice results in mushy texture. Adding cheese too early dries out the top. Not seasoning the beef enough makes the casserole taste flat. Using too much liquid leads to overly soft rice. Forgetting to drain beef causes greasy results.
⭐ Serving Suggestions
Serve with green beans, steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp salad. Pairs wonderfully with ranch dressing, hot sauce, or ketchup for kids. Add extra cheese on top for a richer dish.
⭐ Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
This casserole stores very well. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist. Prepare the beef mixture ahead and add rice fresh before cooking.
⭐ Nutrition (Approx.)
Calories per serving: ~430
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 34g
Fat: 20g
Sodium: 720mg
⭐ FAQs
Can I use brown rice? Yes, but cooking time increases to 40–45 minutes.
Can I make it dairy-free? Use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese.
Can I add vegetables? Yes — peas, carrots, corn, or zucchini work well.
Do I need to pre-cook the rice? No — it cooks with the beef and broth.
Can I make this in the oven instead? Yes — bake covered at 375°F for 35–40 minutes.
💫 More Comfort-Food Recipes
🔗 External Links
⭐ Conclusion
This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a delicious, hearty, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and big comforting flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting a casual dinner, or craving something warm and satisfying, this casserole delivers every time.
