Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole

Name: Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love making Hamburger Meat and Rice Casserole for my family. It has become a go-to recipe in our household because it's not only hearty and filling but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few pantry staples, I can whip this dish together in no time. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese creates a comforting meal that warms us up, especially on chilly evenings. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:56:48.636Z

When I first tried making Hamburger Meat and Rice Casserole, I was surprised at how comforting it felt. We were busy with activities, and I needed something that could cook all together, and this recipe delivered. Using short-grain rice helped maintain that sticky texture that binds the casserole while absorbing all the flavors from the beef and spices.

To enhance the dish, I like to add a sprinkle of paprika and some chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and color. It’s little tweaks like this that make all the difference. Plus, the best part is that it reheats beautifully, so leftovers are just as delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Easy one-pan meal makes preparation and cleanup a breeze.
Customizable with your favorite veggies and seasonings for a personal touch.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of ground beef is pivotal in this casserole. I recommend using at least an 80/20 beef-to-fat ratio for optimal flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef may result in a drier casserole, while fattier options can make the dish greasy. If you prefer a lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, but be mindful that they may require additional seasonings to enhance the flavor profile.

Using beef broth instead of water elevates the dish by infusing every grain of rice with rich, savory notes. If you're looking to cut sodium, consider low-sodium broth or even homemade stock. This enhances the overall depth of flavor without compromising the comfort-food essence of the casserole. Also, feel free to experiment with different broth types—vegetable broth, for instance, can yield a lighter, yet still satisfying dish.

Technique Tips

To ensure even cooking, it’s essential to simmer the casserole mixture for a few minutes before transferring it to the baking dish. This allows the rice to absorb some of the broth's flavor and helps it cook evenly in the oven. Watch for the mixture to reach a gentle simmer with small bubbles forming on the surface—this indicates it's ready to be poured into the baking dish.

When baking, covering the casserole with foil keeps moisture locked in, preventing the rice from becoming dry. During the final baking stage, remove the foil to allow the cheese to become bubbly and golden. This contrast in textures enhances the dish: the soft rice below combined with the creamy, slightly crispy cheese on top is a delightful combination that both kids and adults will savor.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 small onion, diced
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or corn for added nutrition.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onions until browned. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with foil.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for a pop of color.

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Storage and Reheating

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal. After baking, let it cool entirely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. When properly sealed, it can last up to three months in the freezer. Be sure to label your containers with the date for easy tracking.

To reheat, you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, increase baking time to 30-40 minutes. Microwave reheating is also possible, just be careful to use a microwave-safe dish and cover it to prevent splattering while retaining moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Accompanying this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty meal. A light vinaigrette dressing drizzled over greens can enhance the overall dining experience, balancing the richness of the casserole. Alternatively, serving it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang that complements the flavors beautifully.

For those wanting to elevate the dish further, consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, right before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh note that brightens the heavy components of the casserole, making each bite a delightful balance of flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the liquid and cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add about 10 minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Try adding slices of avocado, green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream on top before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.