Introduction
Craving a comfort meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to make? The Classic Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake with Crispy Onion Topping is a delicious and satisfying casserole dish that brings warmth and coziness to the table. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe combines hearty ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with crunchy fried onions, each bite is full of texture and rich flavor, reminiscent of comforting, home-cooked meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or use cooked rice for faster preparation)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup (condensed)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup (condensed)
- 1 cup whole milk (or 2% for a lighter version)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 bag (6 ounces) crispy fried onions (store-bought)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and whole milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme if using. Mix well to incorporate all flavors.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the beef broth over the rice, ensuring the rice is well covered.
- Spread the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the rice.
- Pour the creamy soup mixture over the beef, spreading it out evenly to ensure all layers are coated.
- Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for later.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the crispy fried onions over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the onions are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Note:
- Ensure the rice is well submerged in the liquid during assembly to prevent uneven cooking. If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the baking time by about 15 minutes.
- The crispy onion topping adds a delightful crunch; consider adding more if you enjoy extra texture.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.
- Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- A side of garlic bread or crusty French loaf complements the creamy texture beautifully.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before putting it in the oven.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until warmed through.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 1 hour
Total Time:
- 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion
This Classic Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake with Crispy Onion Topping is the perfect dish to warm hearts and fill stomachs. With its savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and delightfully crispy topping, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Plus, the recipe is versatile and easy to modify based on your preferences. Give it a try for your next meal, and enjoy the delicious comfort of this timeless casserole.