The Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a classic comfort dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. This casserole combines ground beef, tender vegetables, creamy soups, rice, and melty cheddar cheese to create a rich and flavorful meal. Perfect for feeding a family or making in bulk for leftovers, this dish is ideal for any occasion where you need something simple yet delicious.

Casseroles are known for being quick, easy, and perfect for busy families. With everything cooked in one dish, cleanup is minimal, and it can be thrown together with basic pantry ingredients. The ease of preparation makes casseroles a go-to choice for weeknight dinners, while their wholesome ingredients provide a filling and nourishing meal.

Using ground beef and rice in a casserole offers both protein and starch, creating a balanced dish that’s easy to customize based on personal preferences. The creamy soups and cheese give the casserole a rich texture, while the addition of onions and bell peppers brings depth and a slight crunch. This recipe is particularly perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be prepared in advance and baked when needed, providing a stress-free dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love this Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole! First, the versatile ingredients allow you to swap out or add whatever you have on hand, making it easy to adapt to your tastes. Plus, it uses common pantry items like rice, soups, and cheese, ensuring you can make it any time without a special trip to the grocery store.

The beauty of this dish lies in its one-dish convenience: you get an all-in-one meal that satisfies the whole family, with very little mess to clean up afterward. Not to mention, the combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors creates a comforting, familiar taste that’s sure to become a favorite.

This casserole is also ideal for meal prep or making ahead for busy days. It reheats beautifully, so any leftovers can easily be enjoyed for lunch or dinner later in the week.

Ingredients Breakdown

Ground Beef: Ground beef serves as the hearty, flavorful protein base of this casserole. Its richness complements the creamy textures of the soups and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese.
Onion and Bell Pepper: Chopped onions and green bell peppers not only add texture but also enhance the flavor of the casserole by introducing subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch, balancing the creamy elements.
Cream of Mushroom & Cream of Chicken Soups: These soups are essential for giving the casserole its signature creamy texture. The combination of the two offers depth of flavor — the earthy richness of the mushroom and the savory warmth of the chicken soup.
Sour Cream: Sour cream contributes to the overall creaminess, adding a slight tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and soups, creating a more balanced flavor profile.
Cooked White Rice: Rice provides the starchy foundation that helps bind the casserole together. Its mild flavor absorbs the juices and sauces, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese, sprinkled on top, creates a golden, bubbly crust that’s irresistibly cheesy. The sharpness of the cheddar balances out the creamy base and complements the beef.
Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper: These simple seasonings enhance the overall flavor, adding a bit of spice and warmth without overpowering the dish.
Optional Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley can be added for garnish, bringing a bright, fresh flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the casserole.

How to Cook the Perfect Ground Beef

To cook ground beef perfectly for this casserole, follow these simple tips. Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the ground beef without overcrowding the pan — this helps it brown evenly rather than steam. Avoid stirring too often; let the meat sit and brown on one side before flipping it over. This technique enhances the beef’s flavor and texture.

Once the beef is browned, it’s important to drain any excess fat. Too much grease can make the casserole overly rich and soggy. To remove the fat, simply tilt the skillet and use a spoon or paper towels to blot it away.

Incorporate your seasonings — garlic powder, salt, and pepper — while browning the beef to ensure the flavor is infused throughout the meat. This step ensures that every bite of the casserole has a robust, savory taste that complements the creamy ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coat of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until it is fully browned and no longer pink. Add 1 chopped onion and 1 chopped green bell pepper, cooking until they are softened (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease to avoid making the casserole too oily.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and vegetable mixture with 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 1/2 cups of cooked white rice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and fully incorporated.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef and rice mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve the dish hot. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or a side of garlic bread.

Tips for the Best Hamburger Rice Casserole

Choosing the Right Ground Beef: For a casserole with less grease, opt for lean ground beef (85% lean or higher). If you prefer a richer flavor, regular ground beef (70%-80% lean) will add more juiciness but be sure to drain the excess fat.
Using Pre-Cooked Rice vs. Freshly Made Rice: Pre-cooked rice works perfectly in this recipe. However, if you prefer to use freshly made rice, be sure to let it cool slightly before mixing it into the casserole to avoid overly moist results.
Avoiding a Soggy Casserole: To prevent the casserole from becoming soggy, drain the cooked beef thoroughly, and ensure the rice isn’t too wet before mixing it in. Also, avoid adding too much extra liquid to the mixture.
Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar provides a more intense flavor, while mild cheddar is creamier and less overpowering. Experiment with blends like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different twist.

Customizing the Recipe

Vegetarian Version: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute, such as lentils or crumbled tofu. Additionally, swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of vegetable or cream of mushroom soup, and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based options.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute the cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups with gluten-free alternatives. Many brands now offer gluten-free condensed soups, which work just as well. Ensure that the rice and seasonings you’re using are also gluten-free.
Additional Add-ins: This recipe is highly customizable. For extra flavor and texture, consider adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or corn kernels. These additions can enhance both the taste and nutritional value of the dish.
Different Proteins: If you’d like to switch up the protein, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives to beef. These meats have a milder flavor and are lower in fat, making them a lighter option for the casserole.
Spicing It Up: To add some heat, consider mixing in a dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of chili powder, or a pinch of paprika. You can also add jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese to give the casserole a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

To complete your Hamburger Rice Casserole meal, serve it alongside a fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette to contrast the casserole’s richness. Alternatively, garlic bread makes a great pairing, adding a crunchy, buttery element to the meal.

For larger gatherings like a potluck, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. Cut the casserole into smaller portions for easy serving, ensuring everyone gets a delicious piece.

As for drinks, pair this savory dish with a glass of iced tea for a casual meal, or if you’re looking for something more indulgent, a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness of the cheese and beef.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or bake the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. To avoid drying out, cover the casserole with foil while reheating in the oven.

FAQs Section

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, this casserole can easily be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the casserole as instructed, but instead of baking it immediately, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What other types of cheese can I use?
- You can switch up the cheese in this casserole to suit your taste. Mozzarella provides a creamy and stretchy texture, while Monterey Jack adds a mild, buttery flavor. For a spicy kick, try using Pepper Jack, which includes bits of hot peppers for extra heat. Feel free to experiment with cheese blends for a richer flavor profile.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes, brown rice can be used as a substitute for white rice in this recipe. However, brown rice takes longer to cook and has a firmer texture, so make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. You may also need to adjust the liquid content slightly, as brown rice tends to absorb more moisture.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
- To make this recipe dairy-free, replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream. For the cheese, opt for a dairy-free shredded cheese, such as one made from cashews or soy. You can also check for dairy-free versions of the cream soups, which are available in many grocery stores.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
- Yes, this casserole is mild and kid-friendly. It’s creamy and cheesy, making it appealing to children. If you’re serving it to adults, you can easily spice it up with additional seasonings like chili powder or hot sauce, but the base recipe is perfect for kids’ palates.
Can I double this recipe?
- Absolutely! This recipe is easily scalable. To double it for larger gatherings, simply use a larger baking dish, such as an 11×15-inch pan, and ensure the ingredients are spread evenly. You may need to adjust the baking time by adding an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure the center is fully cooked.