Save This crispy onion cheeseburger rice bake transforms classic burger flavors into a comforting casserole that satisfies the whole family. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and crunchy toppings creates a dish that brings smiles to the dinner table every time.
I first created this dish when my family was craving cheeseburgers but I wanted something that could feed us for multiple meals. Now it's requested at least twice a month and has become our go to comfort food for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: provides the classic burger flavor and hearty protein. Look for 85 to 90% lean for best flavor without excess grease
- Yellow onion and garlic: create an aromatic base that enhances the savory notes
- Dill pickle chips: add tangy brightness and nostalgic burger flavor. Choose refrigerated ones for best crunch
- Cooked white rice: serves as the filling base. Jasmine or medium grain works wonderfully
- Cheddar cheese: creates that gooey meltiness everyone loves. Freshly shredded melts more smoothly than pre packaged
- Ketchup mustard and mayo: combine for authentic burger sauce flavor
- Worcestershire sauce: adds depth and umami. A little goes a long way
- Crispy fried onions: provide the addictive crunchy topping that makes this dish special
- Smoked paprika: brings subtle smokiness reminiscent of grilled burgers
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish:
- Generously grease your 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. A light coating of cooking spray works perfectly. This ensures easy serving and cleanup later.
- Brown the beef:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Add the ground beef and break it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains about 5 to 7 minutes. If using higher fat beef carefully drain excess grease leaving just enough for flavor.
- Add aromatics:
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Stir frequently to prevent burning especially the garlic which can become bitter if overcooked. Sauté until the onions become translucent and soft about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Create the sauce:
- Add ketchup mustard mayonnaise Worcestershire sauce salt pepper and smoked paprika to the beef mixture. Stir continuously to incorporate all ingredients evenly allowing the flavors to meld together for 1 to 2 minutes. The mixture should look glossy and well coated.
- Combine everything:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the cooked rice ensuring each grain gets coated with the sauce. Add most of the shredded cheese reserving some for topping milk pickle chips and cherry tomatoes if using. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.
- Bake to perfection:
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheese and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until the edges bubble and cheese melts completely.
- Add the crispy finish:
- Remove the dish from the oven and evenly distribute the crispy fried onions across the top. Return to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning. The onions should turn golden brown and extra crispy.
Save The crispy fried onions are truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I once tried to skip them thinking the dish would be fine without but my family immediately noticed the difference. That golden crunchy layer creates such a delightful textural contrast against the creamy cheesy base that it's become non negotiable in our house.
Make Ahead Tips
This cheeseburger rice bake is perfect for busy households. You can prepare the entire casserole up to the baking point cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook simply add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time. For the crispiest results add the fried onions only during the final baking step rather than in advance.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe welcomes customization based on dietary needs or what you have available. Ground turkey or plant based ground makes a lighter alternative to beef. Brown rice can replace white rice for added fiber though you may need to increase the liquid slightly. For a dairy free version use plant based cheese and milk alternatives. The pickle flavor is essential but relish can work in place of pickle chips in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a true burger experience offer additional toppings tableside like shredded lettuce diced tomatoes extra pickle chips or even crumbled bacon. A squirt of additional ketchup or mustard lets everyone customize their portion just as they would a burger.
Kid Friendly Adaptations
Children absolutely love this dish but if you have particularly picky eaters you can easily adapt it. Consider chopping the pickles very finely so the flavor distributes without noticeable chunks. The same goes for onions in the base. For extremely pickle averse kids you can separate a portion before adding pickles and create a small separate dish for them.
Save These pro tips will elevate your crispy onion cheeseburger rice bake from delicious to unforgettable.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative are suitable swaps for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- → What type of cheese works best?
Classic cheddar is ideal for richness, but pepper jack or a cheese blend adds a flavorful twist.
- → How do I make the onions crispiest?
Use store-bought fried onions or make your own; add them at the end of baking to retain crunchiness.
- → Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Assemble in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding the fried onions in the last step.
- → Are there suggested side dishes?
This pairs perfectly with a green salad, coleslaw, or a cold lager for a complete meal.