This comforting Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner that combines ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s a hearty dish that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy the whole family. The combination of savory beef, flavorful spices, and gooey melted cheese layered over fluffy rice creates a comforting and filling meal. This casserole is also great for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Combine and bake: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
