Print

Comforting Hamburger Meat and Rice Casserole Recipe with Easy Cheddar Sauce

hamburger meat and rice casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A cozy and satisfying casserole combining ground beef, rice, and a rich, creamy cheddar sauce. Perfect for a no-fuss, comforting meal ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your casserole dish lightly.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir together with beef.
  4. Pour in uncooked rice and beef broth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it come to a gentle simmer.
  5. Pour the beef and rice mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish.
  6. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  7. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  8. Lower heat, stir in shredded cheddar, mustard powder, and a pinch of cayenne or paprika. Stir until cheese melts smoothly. Remove from heat.
  9. Evenly pour the cheddar sauce on top of the rice and beef mixture.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
  11. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Notes

If sauce is too thick before baking, whisk in a splash of broth or milk to loosen it. Properly cook the roux to avoid lumps. Let casserole rest before serving for better texture. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for gluten-free version. Dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk can be used but may alter flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: hamburger casserole, rice casserole, cheddar sauce, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, cheesy casserole

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/comforting-hamburger-meat-and-rice-casserole-recipe-with-easy-cheddar-sauce/