Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal featuring seasoned ground beef, flavorful spices, and tender rice, all topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients into a deliciously creamy casserole with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 pound ground beef (93/7 lean-to-fat ratio used)
- ½ cup white onion, finely chopped
- 2 ¼ cups low-sodium beef broth
- ½ cup uncooked long grain white rice
- ¼ cup tomato paste
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cooking oil, ground beef, and finely chopped onions. Cook the ground beef until it is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess grease from the pan and then return the beef and onions to the skillet.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the low-sodium beef broth, uncooked long grain white rice, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, ground cumin, dried oregano, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the casserole: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through to your desired consistency.
- Top with cheese and melt: Remove the skillet from heat and uncover. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let the residual heat melt the cheese, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy hamburger rice casserole warm, optionally with your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers: Refrigerate any leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef (93/7) helps reduce excess fat and grease.
- Covering the skillet while cooking the rice helps it cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with your preferred type of cheese for a different flavor profile.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep moist.
