Quick Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

Welcome to a delightful weeknight dinner solution: Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole. This recipe is a true testament to simplicity and comfort, perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something hearty yet fuss-free. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep work, this casserole transforms humble ground beef into a flavorful and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

The magic of this Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole lies in the combination of ground beef, white rice, French onion soup, and beef consommé, creating a rich and savory flavor profile that requires no extensive cooking. It’s a go-to meal for chilly nights or when time is of the essence, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth reminiscent of classic family dinners. Whether you’re serving it up for a game night gathering or a quick weeknight supper, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast from plates.

With the convenience of make-ahead and freezer-friendly options, this casserole offers not only a delicious meal but also a practical solution for hectic schedules. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies, herbs, or cheese toppings to make it your own. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and effortless dining experience with this Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy weeknight meal option for busy households
• Comforting and satisfying main dish with minimal prep
• Can be customized with various ingredients like different meats, grains, and vegetables
• Stores well in the fridge and freezer for future meals

Why You’ll Love This Quick Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe Recipe

• This recipe is perfect for busy households and those craving a cozy, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• With minimal prep work and common pantry ingredients, this casserole is easy to whip up on a weeknight.
• The French onion soup adds a rich, slow-cooked flavor without the need for extensive cooking time.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to two months, making it a convenient make-ahead option.
• It can be customized by using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version or brown rice for a nuttier flavor.
• Adding cheese on top during the final baking step elevates the dish with a melty, gooey finish.
• This casserole is versatile and can be paired with steamed green beans, a salad, sour cream, or fresh herbs to suit different tastes.
• Families can get creative by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, fresh herbs, or vegetables to the mix, making it adaptable to seasonal variations.
• Kids and guests tend to love the cozy flavors and satisfying texture of this casserole, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or potlucks.
• The convenience of prepping ahead or freezing for later use makes this recipe a lifesaver during hectic weeks, providing the warmth and comfort of simple, homemade food.

Ingredients for Quick Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) French onion soup
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) beef consommé
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced into pats
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped chives, optional

Pro Tips for Quick Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

Pro Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef before assembling the casserole. This step not only ensures that the beef is fully cooked but also helps enhance the overall taste by adding a depth of flavor.

Experiment with different variations by adding seasonal vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture. You can also customize the dish by swapping out the chives for fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or incorporating ingredients like frozen peas for added color and nutrients.

When using brown rice as a substitute, remember that it requires more cooking time and liquid compared to white rice. Adjust the recipe accordingly to achieve the desired texture and consistency in your casserole.

How to Make Quick Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 425°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Brown Ground Beef

Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned and no longer pink, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Assemble Casserole Layers

Spread the cooked beef in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly over the beef.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Butter

Evenly pour the French onion soup and beef consommé over the beef and rice. Gently stir to distribute the liquids, then place the butter pats evenly on top.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Place aluminum foil over the dish, ensuring it is tightly covered, and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

Uncover and bake for another 30 minutes until rice is tender and surface is golden and slightly crisp.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped chives before serving. Serve warm.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed your delicious Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole, it is important to store any leftovers properly. Simply place the leftover casserole in a tightly sealed container and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, you can cover it with foil and warm it in the oven, or for smaller portions, use the microwave. If the casserole looks dry after reheating, you can add a splash of broth to bring back moisture. Additionally, this casserole freezes well and can be portioned and frozen for up to two months. To enjoy your frozen casserole, defrost it overnight in the fridge and then bake it covered until hot.

For those looking to modify the recipe, there are various substitutions and additions you can make to customize the casserole to your liking. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer brown rice, make sure to adjust the liquid amount and cooking time accordingly. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or fresh herbs. To enhance the dish with a cheesy topping, sprinkle grated cheddar over the casserole during the final minutes of baking. Remember to pair this comforting casserole with sides like steamed green beans, a simple salad, or even a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs for a complete meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this hamburger rice casserole. Remember to adjust cooking times as needed.

If you prefer brown rice, it can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind that it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time compared to white rice. Make sure to adjust the recipe accordingly.

Feel free to customize this casserole by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even frozen peas to the dish before baking for extra flavor and nutrients. Experiment with different herbs and vegetables based on what’s in season or available in your fridge to make this recipe your own.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving the Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole, try turning it into individual stuffed bell peppers. Simply cut the tops off bell peppers, remove seeds, and stuff each pepper with the casserole mixture. Bake until the peppers are tender, and the filling is heated through. This presentation adds a colorful touch to the meal and makes it easy for everyone to enjoy their own portion.

Another creative serving suggestion for the Hamburger Rice Casserole is to layer it with shredded cheese and tortilla chips in a baking dish to create a comforting nacho bake. Top the casserole with the chips and cheese before baking until bubbly and golden brown. Serve with sour cream, fresh salsa, and guacamole on the side for a Tex-Mex inspired twist that will have everyone coming back for more.

FAQs for Quick Hamburger Rice Casserole Recipe

Can I substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but remember that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust both accordingly, and expect the texture to be chewier.

Why do I need to brown the ground beef before adding it to the casserole?

Browning the beef first ensures it’s fully cooked and prevents excess grease in the casserole, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Can I add extra vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the rice mixture before baking for extra flavor and color.

What can I use as a substitute for French onion soup in this recipe?

You can use beef broth with sautéed onions or onion powder as a substitute for French onion soup, but keep in mind that the flavor depth may vary slightly.

Conclusion

I hope this Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole becomes a staple in your home, just like it has in mine. It’s a reliable and delicious dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table with minimal effort. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies, herbs, or cheese to make it your own.

Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. The convenience of using pantry staples and the rich flavors from the French onion soup make it a timeless classic that everyone enjoys. So next time you’re looking for a simple and satisfying meal, remember the Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole recipe and let it bring joy to your dinner table.