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Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole

The Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender ground beef, long-grain rice, and rich, savory canned soups. Topped with butter for added richness, this simple casserole bakes to perfection in just an hour. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or contributing to a potluck, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups (370 g) long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) French onion soup
  • 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) beef consommé
  • ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, sliced into pats
  • Chopped chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef
    In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Layer the Casserole
    Spread the cooked ground beef evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the uncooked rice.
  4. Add the Liquid Ingredients
    Pour the French onion soup and beef consommé evenly over the beef and rice layers. Stir gently to combine.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips

  • Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
  • Rice: Long-grain white rice works best, but brown rice or wild rice can be used with adjusted cooking times.
  • Soup Alternatives: Swap French onion soup with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken for a creamier texture.
  • Butter: Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
  • Add-ins: Customize by adding vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Cool the casserole completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Serve with crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.

Pro Tips

  • To ensure even cooking, stir the soup and rice layers gently before adding butter.
  • If the rice is undercooked after the initial baking time, add ¼ cup of warm broth or water, cover, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.