When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the heartiness and satisfaction of a well-made casserole. Among the many delightful options, Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole stands out as a particularly beloved recipe. This dish marries the savory flavors of ground beef with tender rice, all enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a one-dish meal that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special—a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those busy weeks when meal planning was a must, but time was in short supply. My family had just moved into a new house, and with boxes still being unpacked and chaos all around, I needed a meal that was both easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family. The recipe was a lifesaver, turning basic pantry staples into a comforting dinner that quickly became a family favorite. The combination of ground beef, rice, and a rich broth-based sauce created a hearty, flavorful dish that was both filling and delicious.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep work, and once it’s in the oven, you have plenty of time to focus on other things. The result is a savory, satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even casual gatherings.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ½ pounds ground beef (90% lean)
½ sweet onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 ½ cups Jasmine rice or other long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cans (10.5 ounces each) French onion soup
2 cans (10.5 ounces each) beef consomme or beef broth
⅓ cup water
¾ cup unsalted butter, sliced
Fresh chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Casserole Dish
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps the casserole cook evenly and ensures that the rice becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Grease the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes cleaning up afterward much easier. Set the dish aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Olive oil adds a subtle richness to the beef and helps in browning it evenly.
Brown the Ground Beef: Once the oil is hot, add 1 ½ pounds of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the beef into smaller crumbles. Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and the fat has started to render. This process should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add Onions and Garlic: Add ½ chopped sweet onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Continue to cook until the onions are softened and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. This step infuses the beef with aromatic flavors that enhance the overall taste of the casserole.
Drain Excess Grease: Once the beef is fully cooked and the onions are softened, drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step ensures that your casserole won’t be greasy and that the flavors of the beef and vegetables shine through.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Combine Ingredients: In the prepared casserole dish, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with 2 ½ cups of uncooked Jasmine rice (or another long-grain white rice). The uncooked rice will absorb the flavors of the beef and broth as it cooks, creating a flavorful base for the casserole.
Add Soups and Broth: Stir in 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) of French onion soup and 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) of beef consomme or beef broth. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich, savory sauce that will infuse the rice and beef with deep, comforting flavors. Add ⅓ cup of water to ensure that there is enough liquid for the rice to cook properly.
Top with Butter: Arrange ¾ cup of sliced unsalted butter evenly over the top of the casserole. The butter melts into the casserole as it bakes, adding richness and helping to create a delicious, slightly crispy top layer.
4. Bake the Casserole
Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. The foil helps to trap moisture and ensures that the rice cooks evenly.
Remove Foil and Continue Baking: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the top to become golden brown and the rice to become fully cooked and tender. Check the casserole towards the end of the cooking time to make sure that the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Finish and Serve
Fluff the Rice: Once the casserole is baked and the rice is tender, use a fork to fluff the rice. This helps to separate the grains and mix in the flavorful beef and broth.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the casserole with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired. This adds a burst of color and a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the casserole. Serve the casserole warm and enjoy!
Variations and Substitutions
Meat Options: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as leaner meats may cook faster.
Rice Variations: While Jasmine rice is a great choice for its fragrant aroma, you can use other types of long-grain white rice, such as Basmati or regular white rice. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time if you use a different type of rice.
Vegetable Additions: To add more nutrition and flavor, consider mixing in vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers. You can add these vegetables during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef mixture. This adds a nice kick to the dish.
Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites work well.
Summary
Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food that combines simplicity with hearty flavors. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of savory ground beef, tender rice, and a rich, flavorful sauce creates a meal that is both comforting and delicious. With its versatile ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at a casual get-together, Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole brings a touch of warmth and satisfaction to every bite.
