Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake

Here’s a classic Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake that comes out creamy inside with a golden, bubbly top.

🧀🍔 Cheesy Hamburger and Rice Bake

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)

• 1½–2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp is best)

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

Instructions

1. Prep
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.

2. Brown the beef
   Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   Add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
   Add ground beef, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until browned; drain excess fat.

3. Assemble
   In the baking dish, combine:

   • Uncooked rice

   • Beef mixture

   • Cream of mushroom soup

   • Beef broth
     Stir well so rice is evenly distributed.

4. Bake (covered)
   Cover tightly with foil and bake 45 minutes.

5. Add cheese
   Remove foil, stir once, sprinkle cheese evenly on top.

6. Bake (uncovered)
   Return to oven for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and rice is tender.

7. Rest
   Let sit 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.

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Easy Add-Ins

• 🫑 Diced bell peppers or mushrooms

• 🌽 Frozen corn or peas

• 🧄 Extra garlic or a dash of Worcestershire

• 🌶️ A pinch of red pepper flakes

Pro Tips

• If using brown rice, add ½ cup extra broth and bake 15–20 minutes longer.

• Want it extra creamy? Stir in ½ cup sour cream before adding cheese.

• Leftovers reheat beautifully.

If you want a one-pot stovetop version, slow-cooker version, or a taco-style twist, I’m ready 😄