Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole

Name: Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I love making Hamburger Meat and Rice Casserole because it's a comforting dish that brings my family together around the dinner table. The richness of the ground beef combined with tender, fluffy rice creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze! It's perfect for busy weeknights when I need something easy yet satisfying. This recipe never fails to impress, and it’s become a staple in our home for good reason.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:52:47.313Z

When I first tried making Hamburger Meat and Rice Casserole, I was pleasantly surprised at how delicious and straightforward it was. The combination of aromatic spices and savory beef pairs perfectly with the rice, which absorbs all the flavors while cooking. I always recommend using high-quality ground beef, as it significantly enhances the overall taste.

One of the best tips I can share is to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve. It’s become a go-to dish for family gatherings, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for the whole family
One-pan meal for quick preparation and cleanup
Flavors merge beautifully during baking

Choosing the Right Beef

Selecting the right ground beef is crucial for the success of this casserole. Ideally, use ground beef with a fat content between 80-85%. This balance ensures the meat remains juicy and flavorful without being excessively greasy. If you're looking to reduce fat, consider using ground turkey, although it will change the overall taste and texture. Just ensure you add a little more seasoning to the turkey to enhance its flavor.

When browning the beef, allow it to cook undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. This helps develop a nice crust on the meat, enhancing the flavor. Be sure to drain any excess grease after cooking. A small amount of fat can enhance flavor, but too much can make the casserole greasy, impacting the final dish.

Perfecting the Rice Texture

The rice is a key component of this casserole, providing both substance and texture. For best results, use long-grain rice, as it remains fluffy and separates during cooking. Avoid using instant rice, which can become mushy, impacting the overall dish. Rinsing the rice before mixing it in can also help remove excess starch and prevent clumping.

Be mindful not to overcook the rice before adding it to the casserole. It should be slightly underdone since it will cook further in the oven. The ratio of liquid to rice is also important; the beef broth not only seasons the rice but also gives it the necessary moisture to cook perfectly as the casserole bakes.

Customize Your Casserole

While the base recipe is delicious as is, don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your preferences. Consider adding different vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a spicy kick, try incorporating jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with various types of cheese; mozzarella or pepper jack would make flavorful alternatives to cheddar.

For a heartier version, you could stir in some cooked beans or lentils, increasing the protein and fiber content. Just remember that adding additional ingredients may require slight adjustments to the liquid to ensure the casserole holds together without becoming too dry or soupy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Make sure you have everything ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your casserole:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Add chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef, cooking until the onion is soft.

Mix in Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, beef broth, drained tomatoes, and mixed vegetables. Bring to a boil.

Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.

Add Cheese

Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some spices like paprika or Italian seasoning. This casserole also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Storage Tips

This casserole stores well, making it great for meal prep. After cooling completely, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Serving Suggestions

This Hamburger Meat and Rice Casserole is delicious on its own, but consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or steamed green vegetables to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions can also enhance the presentation and flavor.

For a fun twist, serve it in individual ramekins for a more formal presentation, or top it off with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch and texture. This not only elevates the dish visually but also provides an exciting contrast to the creamy casserole.

Common Troubleshooting

If your casserole turns out too dry, it may be because it was overcooked or the ratio of rice to liquid was off. In the future, ensure to check the rice packaging for the correct liquid ratios. Adding a little more broth can help salvage a dry dish at serving time.

Conversely, if your casserole is too watery, reduce the amount of broth slightly, or let it bake covered for a bit longer to allow some evaporation. Keep a close eye and adjust if necessary to get that perfect consistency. It’s also a good idea to allow the casserole to set for a few minutes after baking to thicken up before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven.