French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and cheesy goodness. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish brings together juicy ground beef seasoned with French onion soup mix, tender rice, and a topping of melted cheese and crispy French-fried onions. Its easy preparation makes it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This casserole is simple to make, requiring minimal effort and just one pan.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of French onion soup mix and savory beef creates a delightful flavor profile.
- Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melted cheese and crispy onions, each bite is indulgent and satisfying.
- Versatile Meal: Ideal for cozy family dinners or as a make-ahead option for gatherings.
- Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy layers and familiar flavors, this dish is sure to please even picky eaters.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size to hold all ingredients while ensuring even baking.
- Mixing bowl: Helps in combining ingredients without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- ½ cup French-fried onions
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned.
2. Drain excess grease from the skillet.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Mixture
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well mixed.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in:
1. The cooked ground beef.
2. Sour cream until everything is well combined.
3. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese Topping
Spread the mixture evenly in the dish and top with shredded cheese, allowing it to melt beautifully during baking.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole with foil:
1. Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: Bake Uncovered
Remove the foil:
1. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Add Crispy Onions
Sprinkle French-fried onions on top:
1. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Serve
Allow cooling slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra touch of color!
This delicious French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is ready to be enjoyed by all!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serving this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is as delightful as making it. With its savory flavors and comforting texture, it pairs well with various sides and garnishes to enhance the dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy family meal. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy seconds!
Individual Portions
- For a more elegant presentation, scoop individual servings onto plates. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair your casserole with a crisp green salad. The freshness will balance the rich flavors of the dish nicely.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top before serving. Melted cheese adds a deliciously gooey texture.
Accompanied by Bread
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover casserole!
How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To ensure your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and good-quality broth make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Since the rice will continue cooking in the oven, use uncooked rice as directed for best results.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste before baking; feel free to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Cover While Baking: Keeping it covered for most of the baking time helps retain moisture, preventing dryness.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors.
Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Complement your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with these delicious side dishes that enhance its comfort food appeal.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic butter provide a fresh crunch.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your table.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can contrast nicely with the richness of the casserole.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a favorite—perfect for soaking up flavors!
- Cornbread Muffins: Serve warm cornbread muffins on the side for a sweet, buttery touch that pairs well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Overcooking the beef – Cooking the ground beef too long can make it dry. Aim for browning without overcooking; drain excess grease afterward.
- Skipping the seasoning – Neglecting to season the mixture might lead to bland flavors. Always season your ground beef well and taste as you go.
- Using instant rice – Instant rice doesn’t cook properly in this casserole. Stick with long-grain white rice for best results.
- Not covering while baking – Failing to cover the casserole initially can lead to drying out. Cover with foil for the first part of baking to keep moisture in.
- Ignoring resting time – Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to set.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave – Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat on low in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about this comforting dish, here are some common questions and their answers.
What is French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty dish made with ground beef, rice, French onion soup mix, and topped with cheese and crispy onions.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to substitute mozzarella or Swiss cheese with cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
How can I customize my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition or swap out the beef for turkey or chicken.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything the night before, cover it, and bake it when you’re ready.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
The recipe contains French onion soup mix which typically has gluten. You can look for gluten-free alternatives if needed.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just a delicious meal; it’s also versatile and customizable. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and rich French onion flavors. Topped with gooey melted cheese and crispy French-fried onions, this one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With its delightful taste and satisfying texture, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy the warm, indulgent layers of flavor in each bite, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- ½ cup French-fried onions
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth.
- Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream until well mixed; transfer to the baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Sprinkle crispy onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
