The Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines simple ingredients for a flavorful, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a hearty family dinner, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to become a favorite in your household. With ground beef, rice, and a rich blend of French onion soup and beef consommé, this dish packs a punch of savory flavors that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- Ground beef provides a rich and hearty base for the casserole. You can use lean ground beef if you prefer a lighter version.
- 2 cups (370 g) long-grain white rice, uncooked
- Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe as it cooks up tender and absorbs the flavors of the soups, making the casserole moist and flavorful.
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) French onion soup
- French onion soup adds a depth of flavor with its savory, onion-rich broth, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) beef consommé
- Beef consommé provides a concentrated beef flavor that complements the ground beef and adds richness to the casserole.
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, sliced into pats
- Butter adds richness and moisture to the dish, helping to create a creamy texture as it melts into the rice during baking.
- Chopped chives, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the savory ingredients in the casserole.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- Mix in the Rice and Soups: In the prepared baking dish, add the uncooked rice, browned ground beef, French onion soup, and beef consommé. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add Butter: Evenly distribute the pats of unsalted butter over the top of the casserole. This will melt during baking and create a rich, buttery layer on top of the casserole.
4. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap in the steam and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Check for Doneness: After an hour, check the casserole to ensure the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. If needed, you can bake it for an additional 10-15 minutes uncovered to allow any excess liquid to evaporate and to give the top a slightly crispy texture.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Add Chives (Optional): If desired, sprinkle chopped chives over the top of the casserole before serving. This adds a fresh touch and a subtle onion flavor that complements the dish.
- Serve Hot: Serve the casserole hot as a main dish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Beef: For the best flavor, use high-quality ground beef. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken as a substitute.
- Check the Rice: Depending on the type of rice and the oven, cooking times may vary slightly. Make sure the rice is fully cooked and tender before serving. If it needs more time, simply cover and continue baking.
- Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded cheese to make the casserole your own. These additions can add extra flavor and texture.
This Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole is a perfect go-to recipe when you need a comforting, filling meal with minimal effort. The combination of ground beef, rice, and the flavorful soups makes for a rich and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to please. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious results—this recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
