Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely. Long grain white rice works perfectly—just quick release the pressure as soon as the cooking cycle ends, instead of letting it naturally release.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole as directed, let it cool, then store in the fridge. Reheat and add the cheese and toppings just before serving for best texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the special sauce?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, plain sour cream is a great swap. Even regular yogurt adds creaminess, though you may want to drain excess liquid for a thicker sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You sure can—use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative, and swap the Greek yogurt and mayo in the sauce for plant-based options. The result is still wonderfully hearty and flavorful.

Instant Pot Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Name: Instant Pot Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 teaspoon seasoning salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup long grain brown rice; 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes; 3/4 cup water; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1/3 cup ketchup; Dash of salt and pepper; Chopped pickles, for serving

Craving the comfort of a classic cheeseburger but don’t want the hassle of grilling or flipping patties on a busy weeknight? This Instant Pot Cheeseburger Casserole brings all the bold flavors of your favorite burger—savory beef, tangy pickles, creamy sauce, and melty cheddar—together in one pot, in just about 30 minutes from start to finish. The result is a hearty, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying dinner that’s sure to win over everyone at the table, no matter how hectic your night is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Speedy and Effortless: With the help of the Instant Pot, there’s no need for complex steps or endless stirring. This is pure weeknight magic—dinner is ready in only half an hour!
All the Cheeseburger Flavors You Crave: Each bite is loaded with cheesy beef, tender rice, a zingy “special sauce,” and the delightful crunch of pickles on top. It truly tastes like a cheeseburger in casserole form.
Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, which means no mountain of dishes staring at you when you’re done.
Family-Friendly and Versatile: It’s a guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike, and you can tweak the ingredients to fit your cravings or whatever you’ve got on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what makes this casserole so craveworthy, and how each ingredient shines:

Ground Beef: The star of the show; sets the savory foundation for the classic cheeseburger flavor.
Yellow Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth, balancing out the hearty beef.
Seasoning Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder: Simple, trusted seasonings that bring essential flavor without fuss.
Long Grain Brown Rice: Gives the casserole its satisfying, filling texture. White rice works, too—just tweak the cook time!
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a rich, umami zip that brings burgers to mind.
Dijon Mustard: Lends subtle heat and complexity, echoing the flavors of a cheeseburger.
Diced Tomatoes: Juicy, tangy, and necessary for perfectly cooked rice.
Water: Ensures the rice becomes tender and delicious without sticking.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Because a cheeseburger just isn’t the same without that glorious melted cheese pull.
Mayonnaise, Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream, Ketchup: The base for a creamy and tangy “special sauce,” just like you’d find on a great burger.
Pickles: Offer that irresistible crunch and signature tang right at the end.

Tip: For extra convenience, use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly grated cheddar melts even more luxuriously!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? The beauty of this casserole is in its flexibility! Here’s how you can mix things up:

Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use plant-based ground “beef” for a vegetarian take.
Play with Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack or Colby work beautifully. Go for a blend for even more flavor.
Add Veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even frozen peas before pressure cooking for extra nutrition and color.
** Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of smoked paprika, a splash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Low-Carb: Substitute cooked cauliflower rice for the brown rice and cook it on “Saute” just until heated through.

How to Make Instant Pot Cheeseburger Casserole

Making this casserole is a breeze—here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onions

Set your Instant Pot to “SAUTE” mode and add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in the ground beef, diced onion, and seasonings (seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder). Break up the beef with a spatula and cook until mostly browned.

Step 2: Deglaze the Pot

Once the beef is browned, pour in the water. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits clinging to the bottom—this is key to avoiding the dreaded “burn” notice and boosts flavor.

Step 3: Add Rice and Toppings (But Don’t Stir!)

Sprinkle brown rice evenly over the beef mixture. Do NOT stir—this step helps the rice cook perfectly. Drizzle with Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, then pour both cans of diced tomatoes right on top, ensuring all the rice is covered. Again, resist the urge to stir!

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal the lid, set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes, and then let it naturally release for 10 minutes after cooking. (If you’re using white rice instead, quick release right away.)

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Open the lid and fluff the beef and rice mixture with a fork. Scatter shredded cheddar over the top, then replace the lid for another 2–3 minutes. The cheese will melt into irresistible gooeyness.

Step 6: Whip Up the Special Sauce

While the casserole cooks, combine mayo, Greek yogurt or sour cream, ketchup, plus a dash of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.

Step 7: Serve!

Dish up big scoops of casserole, drizzling or dolloping with special sauce and topping with chopped pickles for that perfect classic cheeseburger finish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Stir the Rice: Layering is your friend! It helps the rice cook evenly and prevents any uncooked grains.
Scrape the Pot: Deglazing after browning the beef keeps the dish full of flavor and avoids any sticking issues.
Let the Cheese Melt Naturally: Letting the heat of the casserole do the work means perfectly gooey, stringy cheese every time.
Experiment with Toppings: Just like with regular burgers, you can offer lettuce, sliced tomatoes, crispy onions, or even a dash of hot sauce for diners to customize.

How to Serve

This casserole is endlessly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few easy, crowd-pleasing ideas:

Bowls:

Scoop steaming helpings into wide bowls and let everyone top their own with special sauce, pickles, and extra cheese.

With Sides:

Pair with crisp oven fries, a fresh green salad, or classic coleslaw.

Slider Style:

Spoon the casserole onto toasted slider buns for casual handheld fun—great for picky eaters or party spreads.

Family-Style Platter:

Pile the casserole onto a serving platter, scatter with pickles, and let everyone dig in for a casual, comforting meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the casserole cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It keeps beautifully and the flavors intensify overnight.

Freezing

Spoon cooled portions into freezer-friendly bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the creamy, cheesy texture. Add fresh cheese or pickles just before serving for best flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely. Long grain white rice works perfectly—just quick release the pressure as soon as the cooking cycle ends, instead of letting it naturally release.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole as directed, let it cool, then store in the fridge. Reheat and add the cheese and toppings just before serving for best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the special sauce?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, plain sour cream is a great swap. Even regular yogurt adds creaminess, though you may want to drain excess liquid for a thicker sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You sure can—use your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative, and swap the Greek yogurt and mayo in the sauce for plant-based options. The result is still wonderfully hearty and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let busy nights keep you from a meal that’s bold, comforting, and fun to eat—this Instant Pot Cheeseburger Casserole fits the bill every time. Super satisfying, even more delicious than takeout, and as easy as can be, it’s the ultimate solution for feeding your crew fast. Feel free to experiment, top it however you like, and make each time uniquely yours. Give it a try—you might just find yourself coming back to this recipe on repeat!