Description
This One-Pan Bacon Cheeseburger Rice Casserole is a delightful combination of classic cheeseburger flavors and comforting casserole goodness. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prepping on weekends. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a savory mix of beef, bacon, and cheese, all baked together in one pan for ultimate convenience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the perfect baking temperature.
- Cook the Bacon and Brown the Beef: In a large, oven-safe skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, reserving the bacon fat in the skillet. Add the ground beef, onions, and garlic to the same skillet and cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
- Add the Rice and Broth: Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Combine and Bake: Reduce the heat to low, stir in half of the cheddar cheese and the cooked bacon, then cover the skillet. Transfer the whole thing to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Choose the Right Rice: Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, works best in this casserole, producing a fluffy texture.
- Adjust for Dietary Needs: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
- Get Creative with Variations: Experiment with different cheese varieties or swap bacon for Italian sausage for a unique twist.
- Store and Reheat Leftovers: The casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: casserole, bacon, cheeseburger, rice, easy dinner