French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty dish that you’ll want to make time and again. This delightful casserole merges savory ground beef with tender rice and ooey-gooey cheese, making it a standout option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Rich flavors from the French onion soup mix elevate this one-pan meal, while crispy fried onions add the perfect crunch. It’s comfort food at its finest, promising satisfaction in every bite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole
• How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Mix Ingredients
• Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 5: Bake
• Step 6: Add Toppings
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Add a Side Salad
• Include Bread Options
• Offer Extra Cheese
• Serve with Pickles or Relish
• Pair with a Light Soup
• How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• What can I add to enhance my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
• How do I store leftovers of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just over an hour, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavorful: The combination of French onion soup mix and beef broth creates a rich, savory taste.
• Versatile: Customize your casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping cheeses.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: This recipe serves eight, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having the right equipment on hand helps streamline preparation and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef to lock in flavor before combining with other ingredients.

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). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until it’s browned.
2. Drain any excess grease.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well mixed.
2. Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish:
Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Top with shredded cheese and cover with aluminum foil.

Step 5: Bake

Place in preheated oven:
1. Bake covered for 40 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Step 6: Add Toppings

After removing from oven:
Sprinkle French-fried onions on top.
Return to oven for another 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to settle. Enjoy your delicious French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Serving French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is simple and versatile. This hearty dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides to elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Chives – Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch that enhances the flavors.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Include Bread Options

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce and add a crunchy texture.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Cheese Topping – Provide additional cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, for those who prefer a cheesier bite.

Serve with Pickles or Relish

• Dill Pickles – A side of dill pickles adds a tangy contrast that complements the casserole’s flavors nicely.

Pair with a Light Soup

• Vegetable Soup – A warm bowl of vegetable soup makes for a comforting starter before digging into the casserole.

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How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

To make your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for high-quality beef broth and fresh herbs to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Let it Rest – Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking makes it easier to serve and helps flavors meld.
• Experiment with Cheese – Mix different types of cheese like Gruyère or sharp cheddar for varied textures and tastes.
• Add Vegetables – Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste before baking and adjust seasonings according to your preference to achieve perfect flavor balance.
• Check for Doneness – Ensure rice is fully cooked by checking tenderness before removing from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

A well-rounded meal includes delicious sides that complement your main dish. Here are some great options to serve alongside your casserole.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while being easy to prepare.
2. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots provide a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.
3. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad offers creamy dressing and crunchy croutons that contrast nicely with the casserole.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can bring brightness to your plate, making it a refreshing choice next to rich flavors.
5. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent side that works well with many casseroles.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is perfect as a finger food option alongside your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a casserole can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes that can affect your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.

• Skipping the browning step – Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always cook it until it’s well browned for the best taste.
• Using too much liquid – Adding excess beef broth can result in a watery casserole. Follow the recipe measurements closely to maintain the perfect consistency.
• Not letting it rest – Cutting into the casserole right after baking can cause it to fall apart. Letting it sit for about 10 minutes helps it hold its shape.
• Overbaking the cheese – Leaving the casserole in the oven too long can burn the cheese topping. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to achieve a golden layer.
• Ignoring seasoning – If you don’t season your beef, the entire dish may lack flavor. Always season your meat before mixing it with other ingredients.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil, until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Place on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed, and stir until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this comforting dish, here are some frequently asked questions regarding French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice; however, increase the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What can I add to enhance my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftovers of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days or freeze them for up to 2–3 months.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole stands out as a hearty meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses, making it not just delicious but also personal. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!