Introduction

This Classic Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake is the ultimate comfort food. With savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights or potlucks. The casserole is topped with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, adding a layer of gooey goodness and a pop of color. Simple to make and kid-approved, this dish makes for great leftovers, too! Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this warm and hearty bake will be a hit.

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Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice)
• 2 ½ cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

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Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

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 apart with a spoon until browned.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

• In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and stir it for 1-2 minutes to toast it lightly.
• Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Cook over medium heat until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 15 minutes).

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

• In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.

Step 5: Combine and Transfer to Baking Dish

• Add the cooked rice and beef mixture into the bowl with the creamy sauce. Stir everything together until evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Transfer the mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping

• Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

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

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

• Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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COOKING Note:

• For extra flavor, swap in a cheddar-jack cheese blend.
• If you prefer a spicier casserole, add ½ teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Pair this casserole with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve with garlic bread or a side of pickles to complement the richness of the dish.

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Tips:

1. Make It a One-Pot Dish: If your skillet is oven-safe, you can transfer it directly to the oven after adding the cheese.
2. Use Pre-Cooked Rice: If you have leftover rice, skip the cooking step and mix it straight into the beef and sauce mixture.
3. Vegetable Add-Ins: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
4. Try Ground Turkey: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.

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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: 420
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 890mg

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Conclusion

This Classic Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. With layers of creamy goodness, savory ground beef, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s a hearty meal that satisfies. The melted cheddar cheese topping adds a delightful gooey texture, while the parsley provides a fresh, vibrant touch. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend family gathering, this casserole will become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to prepare, reheats well, and is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

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