Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole

Name: Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup white rice, uncooked; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 cup onion, chopped; 1 cup bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I love making Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole for a family meal because it's simple yet packed with flavor. This dish combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and a medley of spices to create a comforting meal that everyone enjoys. In just under an hour, I can serve a hearty casserole that warms the soul and satisfies hunger. Whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole quickly becomes a favorite for its comforting taste and easy preparation.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:01:30.456Z

When I first tried this Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such a delicious and satisfying meal. Cooking the rice right in the casserole allows it to absorb all the fantastic flavors from the beef and seasonings, making every bite a pleasure.

One tip I can share is to let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to scoop out perfect portions while keeping the flavors intact. It's always a hit at the dinner table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling - perfect for the whole family
One-pot meal for easy cleanup
Rich flavors that everyone will love

Perfecting Your Casserole

To achieve a well-cooked, comforting casserole, it's essential to brown the ground beef thoroughly. This step adds depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction, creating a savory base for the dish. Make sure the meat is broken into small pieces while cooking to ensure even browning, which typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the meat to cook unevenly and may result in a rubbery texture.

The choice of beef broth matters greatly in influencing the overall flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth if you want to control the seasoning better, especially since the diced tomatoes and any added cheese can contribute additional salt. When selecting your broth, consider a robust beef broth with rich undertones, which can elevate the dish's heartiness and complement the spices perfectly. You can also experiment with bone broth for added nutrients and a deeper flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

If you're looking to make this casserole healthier or accommodate dietary preferences, ground turkey or chicken can serve as great substitutes for the ground beef. These alternatives may require a little more seasoning, so consider adding additional herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning to maintain flavor richness. Additionally, brown rice can be swapped for white rice, but you'll need to increase the cooking time and possibly add more broth, as brown rice absorbs more liquid and takes longer to cook.

For added nutritional value, feel free to include some frozen mixed vegetables such as peas or corn. Stir them into the casserole mixture before baking for an extra boost of vitamins. If fresh vegetables are preferred, sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper, ensuring they are chopped finely to blend in nicely with the rice texture.

Ingredients

Gathering the ingredients for this Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole is easy and straightforward.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup white rice, uncooked
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup onion, chopped
1 cup bell pepper, chopped
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to begin cooking!

Instructions

Let’s dive into making this delicious Hamburger Meat And Rice Casserole.

Brown the Beef

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

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, beef broth, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Transfer to Casserole Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.

Add Cheese and Serve

If using, remove the foil, add shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

After baking, let the casserole sit before serving for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the beef before combining all ingredients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day in advance by following the steps until just before baking. Once assembled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will start from a cold state. This way, dinner is ready with minimal effort after a busy day.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover it with aluminum foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave portioned servings in a microwave-safe dish until heated through, which usually takes around 2-3 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This Hamburger Meat and Rice Casserole is delicious on its own, but serving it with a fresh salad can brighten up the meal. A crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with garlic bread or cornbread, which are both great for scooping up any extra sauce.

If you're looking to spice things up, serve the casserole with your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Fresh cilantro or parsley can also enhance presentation and add a burst of freshness. Feel free to get creative with toppings—crumbled tortilla chips or diced avocado can offer a delightful crunch alongside the casserole.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you're ready.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before wrapping and placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish.

→ How do I make it spicier?

Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra kick.