Introduction

This Cheesy Hamburger and Wild Rice Bake is a satisfying and flavorful casserole, perfect for busy nights or potluck gatherings. The nutty texture of wild rice pairs beautifully with savory ground beef and creamy sauce, while Monterey Jack cheese adds a mild, melty richness. To top it off, toasted almonds provide a crunchy contrast that elevates the dish with every bite. This one-pan bake offers a hearty blend of textures and flavors that the whole family will love, and it stores well for leftovers. Let’s dive into this delicious, comforting casserole!

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Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup wild rice blend (uncooked)
• 2 ½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon thyme (dried)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ¼ cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up into crumbles until browned.
• Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Wild Rice

• In the same skillet, add the wild rice blend and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
• Pour in the beef broth, bring it to a simmer, and reduce the heat. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

• In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and paprika. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Transfer to the Baking Dish

• Add the cooked rice and beef mixture to the bowl with the creamy sauce. Mix well to combine.
• Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Toasted Almonds

• Sprinkle the Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the casserole.
• Scatter the toasted almonds on top for extra crunch.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

• Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

• Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving.

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COOKING Note

• Toasting Almonds: Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
• If the rice absorbs too much liquid, stir in a little more broth before transferring to the baking dish.
• For added richness, use a cheddar-Monterey Jack blend for the topping.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
• A side of garlic bread or buttered rolls makes for a perfect pairing.

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Tips

1. Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.
2. Vegetable Add-Ins: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to add more nutrition and flavor.
3. Use Ground Turkey: Swap out the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
4. Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to make this casserole gluten-free.

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

25 minutes

Total Time

40 minutes

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 26g
• Sodium: 820mg

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Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger and Wild Rice Bake is a delicious twist on traditional casseroles, combining nutty wild rice with savory beef and creamy sauce. Topped with Monterey Jack cheese and toasted almonds, it delivers layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or saving it for leftovers, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Simple to prepare and packed with hearty ingredients, this casserole is as satisfying as it is easy to make.

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