Hamburger Jazz: A Classic Cheesy Casserole for Busy Nights
A melty cheese crust elevates simple pantry staples into a satisfying family feast.
Hamburger Jazz: The Ultimate Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole
If you’re searching for a hearty, easy-to-make comfort food that brings family together around the dinner table, look no further than Hamburger Jazz. This classic casserole recipe combines savory ground beef with creamy mushroom soup, zesty tomatoes, and gooey melted mozzarella for a satisfying meal that’s both nostalgic and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just need a fuss-free weeknight dinner, Hamburger Jazz is sure to jazz up your menu with bold flavors and old-fashioned goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Most of the steps happen in a single skillet, minimizing dishes and maximizing convenience.
- Simple Ingredients: All components are pantry and fridge staples, making it an ideal last-minute meal.
- Cheesy Comfort: A layer of broiled mozzarella delivers that irresistible, bubbly casserole finish.
- Family-Friendly: Mild flavors ensure even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- ½ cup long grain white rice
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Notes
- Ground beef: Use lean beef for less grease and easier cleanup.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Provides a velvety base and deep flavor; substitute with cream of chicken if preferred.
- Diced tomatoes: Keep the juice for extra moisture and flavor balance.
- Rice: Uncooked long grain white rice cooks directly in the casserole, absorbing flavors.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded fresh for best melting quality; try mixing in cheddar for variation.
- Salt and pepper: Adjust to your taste after broiling.
Directions
- Brown the Beef: Crumble the ground beef into a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is evenly browned. Drain off any excess grease (this step keeps the casserole from becoming oily).
- Add Soup, Tomatoes, and Rice: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, undrained diced tomatoes, and uncooked rice. Combine thoroughly so the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to keep the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Preheat Broiler: While the rice finishes cooking, set your oven broiler on high.
- Transfer and Top with Cheese: Once the rice is fully cooked, transfer the skillet mixture into a casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
- Broil: Place the casserole dish under the broiler. Broil for a few minutes, just until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown on the edges. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Season and Serve: Remove from the oven, season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Mix it Up: Add chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and depth of flavor.
- Swap the Cheese: Try cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend for a new twist.
- Stretch the Casserole: For feeding a crowd, add an extra ½ cup of rice and a splash of beef broth to extend servings.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the beef and rice base in advance, refrigerate, and add cheese before broiling when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | 425 |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 21g (27% DV) |
| Saturated Fat | 9g (43% DV) |
| Cholesterol | 83mg (28% DV) |
| Sodium | 849mg (37% DV) |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28g (10% DV) |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g (4% DV) |
| Total Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 28g (56% DV) |
| Vitamin C | 8mg (8% DV) |
| Calcium | 224mg (17% DV) |
| Iron | 6mg (34% DV) |
| Potassium | 451mg (10% DV) |
Nutrition values are based on a serving size with the recipe divided into 4 generous portions.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
- Serving: Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
- Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to lighten up your plate.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly.
- Freezing: Assemble and freeze before broiling. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add cheese and broil just before serving.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetarian mushroom soup.
- Mexican Jazz: Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, and corn. Top with cheddar and serve with sour cream and salsa.
- Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to bring the heat.
- Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice in place of white rice, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use instant rice instead of uncooked long grain rice?
A: While instant rice will cook much faster, it may become mushy if simmered for the full 15 minutes. If using instant rice, add it during the last 5-7 minutes of simmering, just until tender and heated through.
Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A: Cream of chicken or celery soup works well, or make a homemade béchamel sauce blended with sautéed mushrooms for a from-scratch approach.
Q: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can assemble the base of the casserole and freeze before the broiling step. When ready to serve, thaw overnight, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
Q: How can I make Hamburger Jazz gluten-free?
A: Use a certified gluten-free condensed mushroom soup and double-check that your other ingredient brands are gluten-free.
Q: Can I add extra vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Sauté diced onions, bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms with the beef, or stir in frozen peas or spinach with the soup and tomatoes.
Community Tips and Reviews
“This casserole is a staple in our home—so quick, filling, and everyone loves the melted cheese crust!”
—Allrecipes Reviewer
“I like to double the recipe for leftovers—it reheats perfectly for lunches.”
—Community Member
Get Involved: Ask the Community
Have a tip, variation, or question? Connect with other home cooks and share your ideas. Whether you’re tweaking the spices, adding new toppings, or swapping ingredients, your feedback makes this classic recipe even better.
Share Your Own Jazzed-Up Hamburger Casserole!
Everyone has a spin on this classic—whether you’re adding smoky paprika, mixing in veggies, or experimenting with cheeses, Hamburger Jazz is a perfect base for your creativity. Leave a comment or review and let others know your favorite way to make this casserole shine.
Conclusion: A True Weeknight Hero
Hamburger Jazz is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, delicious food. With minimal prep, familiar ingredients, and a kid-friendly flavor profile, it’s the kind of meal you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need a dish that reheats beautifully for leftovers, this cheesy hamburger rice casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction—no culinary jazz hands required!
References
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.