Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole (One-Pan, Budget Family Dinner)
A hearty, budget-friendly one-pan meal made with ground beef, rice, tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please the whole family.
Yield: 4 people
Calories: 420kcal
Cost: $5
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or casserole pan (with lid)
- Wooden Spoon
- Cheese grater
Materials
- 1 lb ground beef lean preferred
- 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can tomato sauce or diced tomatoes 15 oz
- 2 cups beef broth or chicken/vegetable broth
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika optional
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning optional
- 1 cup optional vegetables corn, peas, bell peppers, or green beans
Instructions
- Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add uncooked rice, beef broth, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning (or your favorite spices). Stir in vegetables if using.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the casserole simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Remove from heat, rest for 5 minutes, then serve hot. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Brown rice can be used but requires a longer cooking time.
For freezer storage, cool completely before sealing in an airtight container.
Brown rice can be used but requires a longer cooking time.
For freezer storage, cool completely before sealing in an airtight container.