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Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole

This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting, budget-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ground beef, tender rice, savory seasonings, and a creamy tomato-based sauce, this one-dish wonder is baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a no-fuss, satisfying meal the whole family will love—great for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 6 oz (170g) chicken ham, chopped (optional)
  • 6 oz (170g) turkey bacon, cooked and chopped (optional)
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Instructions

  • Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook ground beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Mix casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, chicken ham, turkey bacon, uncooked rice, beef broth, both cans of soup, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
  • Assemble: Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.
  • Bake: Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until rice is tender. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven for 5–10 minutes, until cheese is melted.
  • Rest and serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Beef Tip: Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

  • Rice Choice: Long-grain white rice works best. Be sure it’s uncooked when added to the casserole so it can soak up all the flavor as it bakes.

  • Tomato Base: A mix of condensed tomato soup and beef broth gives the dish a creamy, savory base. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness.

  • Cheesy Upgrade: Stir shredded cheddar into the casserole or sprinkle it on top before baking for that irresistible melted cheese finish.

  • Add Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, corn, or peas for extra nutrition and texture.

  • Seasoning Boost: Onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning elevate the flavor with minimal effort.

  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate—just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

  • Freezer Friendly: This casserole freezes well—just wrap tightly and bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45–55 minutes, covered for the first half.