Hamburger Rice Casserole: Just the name conjures up images of cozy weeknight dinners and the comforting aroma of home cooking, doesn’t it? This isn’t just another casserole; it’s a warm hug in a dish, a nostalgic trip back to simpler times, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for even the pickiest eaters.
While its exact origins are shrouded in the mists of mid-century culinary innovation, the Hamburger Rice Casserole likely emerged as a resourceful way to stretch ground beef and rice into a satisfying meal for growing families. Think of it as a culinary descendant of shepherd’s pie, adapted for the American pantry. It embodies the spirit of making deliciousness out of readily available ingredients.
But what is it about this humble casserole that has kept it a family favorite for generations? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. We’re talking minimal prep time and straightforward instructions perfect for busy weeknights. Then there’s the taste: a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and often, a creamy, cheesy sauce that binds it all together. The texture is equally appealing, offering a delightful contrast between the tender rice, the hearty beef, and the melted cheese topping. It’s a complete meal in one dish, offering both protein and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and balanced option. So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and convenient, look no further than this classic!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup cooked rice (long-grain or medium-grain works best)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture
Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is cook our ground beef. This is the foundation of our casserole, so let’s make it flavorful!
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. We want it to be nice and crumbly.
- Drain the Excess Grease: Once the ground beef is fully browned, carefully drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole! I usually tilt the pan and use a spoon to hold back the beef while pouring the grease into a heat-safe container.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Now, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. They should be slightly translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Next up, we’re going to make the creamy, dreamy sauce that brings everything together. This is where the magic happens!
- Combine the Soups: In the same skillet (with the ground beef and vegetables), add the condensed cream of mushroom soup and cream of celery soup. Stir well to combine.
- Add Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel). Don’t drain it! The liquid adds extra flavor and moisture to the casserole. Stir everything together.
- Incorporate the Rice: Add the cooked rice to the mixture. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the ground beef and sauce.
- Add Milk and Worcestershire Sauce: Pour in the milk and Worcestershire sauce. The milk helps to thin out the sauce slightly, and the Worcestershire sauce adds a savory depth of flavor. Stir well to combine.
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with the recommended amounts and adjust as needed.
Assembling the Casserole
Now for the fun part putting it all together! This is where our casserole starts to take shape.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly.
- Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the bottom. I like to use cooking spray, but you can also use a little bit of butter or oil.
- Pour the Mixture into the Dish: Pour the ground beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. We’re saving the rest for later!
Baking the Casserole
Almost there! Now it’s time to bake our casserole until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
- Bake in the Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Broil (Optional): If you want the cheese to be extra bubbly and browned, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes. Watch it carefully, as it can burn quickly!
- Let it Rest: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice.
Serving and Garnishing
Finally, it’s time to enjoy our delicious Hamburger Rice Casserole! Here are a few tips for serving and garnishing.
- Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Warm: Serve the casserole warm. It’s great on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Tips and Variations
Want to customize your Hamburger Rice Casserole? Here are a few ideas:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the ground beef mixture, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra heat.
- Use Different Soup: Try using cream of chicken soup or cream of broccoli soup instead of cream of mushroom or celery.
- Add Beans: Stir in a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for added protein and fiber.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom and celery soups, and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Detailed Cooking Notes
Here are some more detailed cooking notes to ensure your Hamburger Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time:
- Ground Beef Selection: I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for this recipe because it has enough fat to keep the casserole moist and flavorful. However, you can use leaner ground beef if you prefer. Just be sure to add a little bit of olive oil to the skillet when browning the beef to prevent it from drying out.
- Rice Type: Long-grain or medium-grain rice works best in this recipe. Avoid using short-grain rice, as it can become too sticky. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. You can use leftover rice or cook a fresh batch.
- Soup Consistency: The condensed cream of mushroom and celery soups can be quite thick. If you find that the mixture is too thick, you can add a little bit more milk to thin it out.
- Cheese Quality: Use good-quality shredded cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly. If possible, shred your own cheese from a block.
- Baking Time: The baking time may vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the casserole and bake it until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the casserole with foil.
- Broiling Caution: If you choose to broil the casserole, watch it very carefully, as it can burn quickly. Keep the oven door slightly ajar and stay close to the oven.
- Resting Time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving is important. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice. It also prevents the casserole from being too runny.
Troubleshooting
Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are some common problems and solutions:
- Casserole is too dry: Add a little bit more milk or chicken broth to the mixture before baking.
- Casserole is too runny: Make sure the rice is fully cooked and that you drain off any excess grease from the ground beef. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture to help thicken it.
- Cheese is not melting: Use good-quality shredded cheddar cheese and make sure the oven is hot enough. You can also try broiling the casserole for a minute or
Conclusion:
This Hamburger Rice Casserole isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make dish that the whole family will adore. From the savory ground beef to the perfectly cooked rice and the creamy, cheesy topping, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. It’s the kind of meal that evokes feelings of warmth and satisfaction, perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
But what truly makes this casserole a must-try? It’s the sheer versatility! Feel free to customize it to your liking. Want to add more vegetables? Toss in some diced bell peppers, onions, or even frozen peas and carrots. Looking for a spicier kick? A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. You can even experiment with different types of cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites would all work beautifully.
For serving suggestions, this casserole is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you could even top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. And for those who love leftovers (like me!), this casserole reheats wonderfully, making it a perfect option for lunch the next day.
Think about it: a complete, satisfying meal, ready in under an hour, with minimal cleanup. What’s not to love? This Hamburger Rice Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m confident that it will become a staple in your recipe rotation.
I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I truly believe that you’ll find it as comforting and delicious as I do. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!
But don’t just take my word for it. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself. And once you do, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of casserole enthusiasts! I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! I am sure that you will enjoy this Hamburger Rice Casserole.
Hamburger Rice Casserole: Easy Recipe for a Delicious Dinner
Comforting Hamburger Rice Casserole with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, creamy soup, and cheese. A simple, satisfying family meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup cooked rice (long-grain or medium-grain works best)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Soups: Add condensed cream of mushroom soup and cream of celery soup to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Add Tomatoes and Rice: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained. Add the cooked rice. Stir everything together.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Pour in the milk and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Pour Mixture: Pour the ground beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Remaining Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Broil (Optional): If desired, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve: Serve warm.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use 80/20 ground beef. If using leaner beef, add a little olive oil to the skillet when browning.
- Long-grain or medium-grain rice works best.
- Adjust the amount of milk to achieve desired sauce consistency.
- Use good-quality shredded cheddar cheese for better melting.
- Baking time may vary depending on your oven.
- Watch carefully when broiling to prevent burning.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving allows the flavors to meld.
- Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
- Experiment with different types of cheese.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra heat.
- Try using cream of chicken soup or cream of broccoli soup instead of cream of mushroom or celery.
- Stir in a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for added protein and fiber.
- Use gluten-free cream of mushroom and celery soups, and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
- Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- If the casserole is too dry, add a little bit more milk or chicken broth to the mixture before baking.
- If the casserole is too runny, make sure the rice is fully cooked and that you drain off any excess grease from the ground beef. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture to help thicken it.
- If the cheese is not melting, use good-quality shredded cheddar cheese and make sure the oven is hot enough. You can also try broiling the casserole for a minute or
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