Dinner

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the delicious flavors of French onion soup with hearty ground beef and rice. This one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights or as a dish to impress guests at your next gathering. With its gooey, melted cheese topping and savory aroma, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 450
Protein: 24 grams
Carbohydrates: 42 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 830 mg

Why Make This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole brings together the heartiness of ground beef and rice with the rich, sweet flavors of caramelized onions and creamy cheese. It’s a delightful dish that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for a weeknight meal. The preparation is straightforward, making it a great option for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it brings back nostalgic memories of comforting home-cooked meals.

How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can French onion soup
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, sliced
2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., Swiss or Gruyère)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Directions:

### Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step will get your oven ready to create that warm, comforting casserole as soon as you’re done prepping.

### Step 2: Sautéing the Onions

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. The caramelized onions will add depth and sweetness to the dish.

### Step 3: Cooking the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it into chunks as it cooks. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. This step adds protein and flavor to the casserole.

### Step 4: Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the French onion soup, beef broth, uncooked rice, and the cooked beef and onion mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the rice can absorb all the flavors as it cooks.

### Step 5: Baking the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

### Step 6: Finishing with Cheese

Remove the foil and top your casserole with the shredded cheese. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

### Step 7: Cooling and Serving

Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This rest time allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Consider sprinkling some fresh herbs on top, like parsley or chives, for an added touch of color and flavor.

How to Store French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Expert Tips for Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

For an extra depth of flavor, consider using a mix of beef broth and red wine.
Feel free to add some veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms when browning the beef and onions for added nutrition.
If you love a cheesy topping, don’t hold back—add more cheese before the final bake.
Use leftover roast beef or shredded chicken as an alternative protein.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
Herbed Rice: Incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary into the rice for added flavor.
Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for varied flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of rice should I use?

For this recipe, long-grain rice works well as it will absorb the liquid without becoming mushy. You can also use basmati or jasmine rice for a different flavor.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking stage. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate it. Increase the baking time slightly if cooking from cold.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you have a larger baking dish or two separate dishes to accommodate the increased quantity.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free French onion soup and ensure your beef broth is also gluten-free.

How can I tell when the rice is done?

The rice should be tender and have absorbed the liquid. If there’s still liquid remaining after the suggested baking time, you can bake it a little longer, checking every 5 minutes.

Conclusion

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate. With its warm, cheesy topping and rich flavors, it offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for gatherings or as a delightful weeknight meal. So gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy this delicious casserole with your loved ones!