Julia Walton
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven. This Savory Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that brings together tender ground beef, fluffy rice, gooey melted cheese, and vibrant red bell peppers into one deliciously cohesive meal. The flavors are rich, savory, and satisfying — making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner recipe, easy casserole idea, or simply need a dish that everyone will devour without complaint, this one checks all the boxes. It’s fuss-free, affordable, and oh-so-delicious. With a golden cheesy crust on top and creamy, savory goodness underneath, each bite offers layers of flavor and comfort. You can even customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients for this Savory Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. Cook until no pink remains and the beef is well-browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes until the veggies become tender and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Step 5: Uncover and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes. This will allow the cheese on top to become beautifully melted and slightly golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
(Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may need additional liquid. Pre-cooking the rice is recommended.
2. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with cream of chicken or a homemade béchamel sauce for a cleaner option.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not by default—most cream of mushroom soups contain gluten. Use a gluten-free soup and check labels to ensure the entire dish remains gluten-free.
5. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Try adding peas, corn, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition and variety.
6. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or chili powder when cooking the beef.
7. What cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend also work beautifully.
8. Can I use leftover rice instead of uncooked?
Yes! Just reduce the broth to about ¾ cup and mix everything before baking. Reduce baking time by 10–15 minutes.
Savory Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 7 minute
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Looking for a comforting, easy dinner recipe that satisfies the whole family? This Savory Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is the answer. It’s one of those classic comfort food ideas that never goes out of style. Packed with hearty ground beef, tender rice, melted cheddar cheese, and colorful bell peppers, every bite is rich, creamy, and satisfying. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prep, this casserole combines simplicity and flavor in one dish. It’s the perfect go-to when you’re out of dinner ideas and need something warm, easy, and delicious on the table fast.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil, diced onion, and bell pepper. Sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, 1 cup cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with more cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
- Category: Dinner