Introduction to French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Need a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to throw together? French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect one-pan meal for busy nights. Featuring seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and the rich, savory flavor of French onion soup, this casserole delivers big taste with minimal effort. Topped with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection, it’s a family-friendly favorite that’s sure to become part of your regular dinner rotation. Warm, filling, and full of flavor—this is comfort food made simple!
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just an hour from start to finish. The rich, savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup for you. Who doesn’t love a hearty meal that brings the family together without the hassle?
Ingredients for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive oil: This is your go-to for sautéing the onions, adding a rich flavor and healthy fats.
Onion: A medium onion, thinly sliced, brings that classic French onion taste, sweet and savory.
Ground beef: One pound of ground beef provides the protein and heartiness that makes this dish filling.
Garlic powder: A teaspoon of garlic powder enhances the flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Onion powder: This adds depth to the onion flavor, making it even more robust.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the overall taste of the casserole.
Long-grain white rice: Uncooked rice absorbs the flavors and helps bind the dish together.
Beef broth: Two cups of beef broth infuse moisture and richness, making every bite delicious.
Cream of mushroom soup: This adds creaminess and a hint of umami, making the casserole extra comforting.
Shredded cheddar cheese: A cup of cheese on top creates a gooey, melty finish that’s hard to resist.
Worcestershire sauce: Just a tablespoon adds a savory kick that enhances the beef flavor.
Fresh parsley: Optional for garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting brown rice for a healthier option, but remember to adjust the cooking time. You can also toss in some veggies like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition. Exact measurements for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Creating this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to bake your casserole to perfection.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent. The aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a comforting meal.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Now, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine. These seasonings will elevate the flavors, making every bite a delight.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well mixed. This mixture is the heart of your casserole, bringing everything together.
Step 6: Mix Everything Together
Add the beef and onion mixture to the bowl and stir until everything is evenly combined. You want to ensure that every grain of rice is coated in that savory goodness.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 8: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This cheesy layer is what dreams are made of!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Finally, let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This adds a touch of color and freshness, making your dish even more inviting.
Tips for Success
Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
For extra flavor, sauté the onions until they’re caramelized.
Don’t skip draining the fat from the beef; it keeps the casserole light.
Feel free to add your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to help it set.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for easy cooking and cleanup.
9×13-inch baking dish: Any oven-safe dish will do if you don’t have this size.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients.
Aluminum foil: This helps keep the casserole moist while baking.
Spoon or spatula: Use these for stirring and serving your delicious creation.
Variations of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Brown Rice Swap: Use brown rice instead of white for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just remember to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.
Vegetable Boost: Add in some frozen peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your casserole a spicy edge.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
Serve with garlic bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.
A glass of red wine complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works great. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist while keeping the flavors intact.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist.
What sides pair well with this casserole?
This casserole is hearty on its own, but a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables make excellent sides. They add freshness and balance to the meal.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The rich, savory aroma wafting through your home invites everyone to gather and share stories. Each bite is a comforting reminder of home-cooked goodness, making it a perfect dish for family nights or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying time with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this casserole become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
A delicious and hearty French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that combines savory flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Scale
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups beef broth
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well mixed.
Add the beef and onion mixture to the bowl and stir until everything is evenly combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For a healthier twist, substitute brown rice for white rice and increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.
Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
