The Cheesy BBQ Hamburger and Rice Bake is a comforting, savory dish that combines ground beef, barbecue sauce, and rice, all topped with a delicious layer of melted cheddar cheese. This recipe takes a traditional hamburger casserole and gives it a smoky, bold BBQ twist. It’s the perfect recipe to whip up for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you’re craving comfort food with a punch of flavor. With a base of hearty ground beef and rice, this dish is satisfying and easy to prepare in advance, making it a great go-to for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 1/2 cups water or beef broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 small bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
• Fresh parsley or green onions (optional garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Rice

• Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
• In a medium saucepan, add 1 1/2 cups of water (or beef broth for extra flavor) and bring to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

• While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using), sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook the beef until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.

Step 3: Season and Add BBQ Sauce

• Season the cooked beef with smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and chili powder (if using). Stir to combine the spices evenly.
• Pour in the barbecue sauce and stir well until the beef mixture is fully coated in the sauce. Allow the beef to simmer on low for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly along the bottom.
• Spoon the BBQ beef mixture on top of the rice, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
• Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend) over the top of the beef.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

• Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
• For an extra golden, crispy top, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch carefully to avoid burning).
• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions, if desired, before serving.

Cooking Notes:

• Rice: If you want to save time, you can use pre-cooked or leftover rice. Just make sure it’s warm before adding it to the dish to ensure even baking.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix it up by using Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• BBQ Sauce: For an added layer of complexity, you can experiment with different types of barbecue sauces, like smoky, sweet, or spicy, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this Cheesy BBQ Hamburger and Rice Bake with a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or a crisp garden salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
• For a Tex-Mex twist, consider topping the bake with sour cream, guacamole, or a sprinkle of cilantro.
• If you’re feeling indulgent, pair this bake with some warm garlic bread or cornbread on the side.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: This dish is great for meal prepping. You can prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Protein Variations: For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. You can also add black beans or pinto beans for extra protein and fiber.

Prep Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 25 minutes

Total Time:

• 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Sodium: 800mg

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