Looking for a hassle-free weeknight meal that’s both simple and bursting with flavor? Introducing our Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole—a delightful fusion of ground beef, French onion soup, beef consommé, and buttery rice. This one-hour wonder is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Let the oven do the work while you savor the anticipation of a hearty, home-cooked dish.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Meat: Opt for a pound of ground beef as the star of this casserole. Feel free to switch things up by substituting ground turkey or using a blend of the two. Ground chicken or sausage could also make interesting alternatives—just ensure the meat is cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Rice: Choose long-grained white rice, such as jasmine or basmati, for optimal results. Their ability to separate when cooked adds a delightful texture to the dish, unlike medium or short-grained rice, which tends to stick together.
French Onion Soup: Utilize a can of condensed French onion soup for that rich, savory flavor.
Beef Consommé: Opt for condensed beef consommé to infuse a robust taste. In a pinch, beef broth or beef stock can be substituted.
Butter: Divide a stick of butter into pats and evenly distribute them over the rice mixture before cooking, adding a luxurious touch to the casserole.
How to Store Easy Hamburger Rice Casserole
Storing leftovers of this delectable casserole is a breeze. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Enjoy the convenience of meal prep, as it stays fresh for up to 4 days. When it’s time to reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick 1-2 minutes. For those thinking ahead, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (454 g) ground beef
- 2 cups (370 g) long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cans (295 ml each) French onion soup
- 2 cans (295 ml each) beef consommé
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, sliced into pats
- Chopped chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink (8-10 minutes). Drain excess grease.
- Add the cooked ground beef to the prepared baking dish. Layer with uncooked rice, French onion soup, and beef consommé. Stir to combine.
- Top the rice mixture with evenly spaced pats of butter.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and tender.
- Fluff the rice and serve, optionally garnished with chopped chives.
