Rice Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and creamy soups, topped with noodles for a comforting, family-friendly meal with rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onions and salt, then drain any excess fat.
- Mix the cooked beef and onions with cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, water, uncooked rice, soy sauce, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, uncover, and place Chinese noodles on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until noodles are cooked and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider substituting ground turkey for the hamburger. You can also use brown rice instead of white for added fiber, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice may require longer. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a teaspoon of hot sauce to the mixture. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions for an extra flavor boost. For a heartier option, serve alongside garlic bread or a warm loaf of crusty bread. It’s a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 398 calories, with 14g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2555mg per serving (111% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through thoroughly. This makes it a great option for meal prep or unexpected guests.
Can I freeze the Rice Hamburger Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If baked, ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
What can I use as a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of celery or even a homemade white sauce. To make a quick alternative, mix 1 cup of milk with a tablespoon of flour and seasonings like garlic powder and herbs. This will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).