Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish I love making when I want something simple, filling, and full of flavor. It combines savory ground beef, tender rice, veggies, and gooey melted cheese in one delicious bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or when I need a satisfying family dinner with minimal effort. Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick to put together and always a hit at the table. The rich blend of seasoned meat, rice, and melted cheese gives me that classic comfort food vibe. I can easily make this with pantry staples and adjust the ingredients to fit whatever I have on hand. It’s also great for meal prepping and makes amazing leftovers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat.
I add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, then drain the excess fat.
I stir in the chopped onion and bell peppers and cook until they’re soft.
Then I add the garlic and cook for another minute.
I pour in the uncooked rice, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. I stir everything together well.
I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 18–20 minutes, until the rice is tender.
I add in the frozen peas and carrots and cook for 5 more minutes.
Off the heat, I mix in half of the shredded cheese.
I transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
I top it with the rest of the cheese.
I bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
For more fiber, I switch out the white rice for brown rice or quinoa.
I like mixing in mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.
I add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach when I want to boost the nutrition.
When I’m in the mood for heat, I increase the red pepper flakes or stir in some hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, I freeze it in portions for up to 3 months.
To reheat, I thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual servings. I usually add a little broth or water to keep it moist.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

I prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to bake it, I just add 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, I reduce the broth to 1 cup and add 3 cups of cooked rice after sautéing the veggies. Then I follow the rest of the recipe as usual.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

I make a vegetarian version by swapping the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or a mix of beans and lentils, and I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

I like serving it with a green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread to round out the meal.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely. I often stir in chopped spinach, corn, or diced tomatoes to boost the flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole is one of those reliable, cozy meals I come back to again and again. It’s easy to customize, feeds a crowd, and packs a lot of flavor with very little effort. Whether I’m feeding family or prepping for the week, this casserole never disappoints.