Hamburger & Rice Casserole
ADVERTISEMENT
If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd‑pleasing dish that fits busy weeknights or casual family dinners, Hamburger & Rice Casserole is the answer. Made with budget‑friendly staples like ground beef, rice, and creamy seasonings, it’s warm, satisfying, and full of flavor. Best of all, it’s freezer‑friendly, easy to make ahead, and even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
ADVERTISEMENT
There’s something timeless about a casserole—it’s comforting, nostalgic, and often reminds us of simpler family dinners. This recipe has been a household favorite for decades, and it’s easy to see why. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and simple ingredients, it’s the ultimate one‑dish meal that always delivers.
ADVERTISEMENT
Approachable and foolproof, this casserole is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. It’s hearty, customizable, and doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. For me, it brings back memories of family gatherings, when the aroma of baked cheese and savory beef filled the kitchen and everyone lingered for seconds.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe guarantees success—and once you’ve made it, it’ll quickly become part of your regular rotation.
Hamburger & Rice Casserole
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | — |
| Sweet onion | 1 small | Diced |
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb | — |
| Kosher salt | ½ tsp | — |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | — |
| Garlic powder | 2 tsp | — |
| Dried thyme leaves | ½ tsp | Not ground |
| Chicken broth | 2½ cups | Low sodium |
| Long grain white rice | 1½ cups | Rinsed |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 (10.5 oz) can | — |
| Corn | 2 cups frozen or 1 can | Drained |
| Mexican blend cheese | 2–3 cups | Shredded |
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics
Set Instant Pot to Sauté. Add olive oil and onion; cook until translucent. - Brown Beef
Add ground beef. Break up as it cooks until mostly browned. - Season
Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Drain excess grease if needed. - Add Broth & Rice
Pour in chicken broth. Spread rinsed rice evenly over meat (do not stir). Ensure rice is submerged. - Layer Soup
Dollop cream of mushroom soup on top of rice; spread evenly. Do not stir. - Pressure Cook
Cancel Sauté. Secure lid, set steam release to Sealing. Pressure Cook on High for 8 minutes. - Quick Release
When done, turn steam release to Venting. Wait for pressure indicator to drop. - Finish & Serve
Stir in corn. Gradually mix in cheese, one cup at a time (add more if desired). Let sit uncovered for a few minutes to melt. Serve hot.
