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 busy weeknights, this dish brings together juicy ground beef, tender rice, and delicious layers of melted cheese topped with crispy French-fried onions. It’s an easy recipe that will surely become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip this up on a busy night.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of French onion soup mix and ground beef creates a rich, savory taste that everyone will love.
• One-Pan Wonder: This casserole cooks all in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
• Versatile Meal: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the cheese according to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole seamlessly, having the right tools at hand will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly before mixing it into the casserole.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for holding all the ingredients while allowing them to bake evenly.

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.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
Drain excess grease.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream.
Mix everything thoroughly.
Transfer to the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
Top with shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered

Remove the foil.
Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Add Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle French-fried onions on top.
Bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Let cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

This delightful casserole serves six people and combines ease with incredible flavor—perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only delicious on its own but can also be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance the meal. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dinner even better.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan provides a classic touch.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm slices of garlic butter bread complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole.

Include Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring a lovely contrast to the savory casserole.

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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, follow these tips for best results.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and high-quality cheese can make a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the ground beef enhances its flavor before mixing it into the casserole.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or garlic powder based on your preference.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied flavor profiles.
• Cover Properly: Ensure your baking dish is covered tightly with foil during baking to retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

When serving your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with it. They will complement the richness of the casserole while adding variety to your meal.

1. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with almonds create a crunchy contrast.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch that balances out the casserole’s creaminess.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and blend well with the flavors of the dish.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor and is fun to eat alongside your casserole.
5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with sour cream or chives for an additional treat.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables offers a healthy option that complements the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the ground beef: Make sure to cook the beef just until browned. Overcooking it can lead to a dry casserole.
• Not rinsing the rice: Rinsing uncooked rice helps remove excess starch, which can prevent it from becoming gummy during cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The French onion soup mix already contains salt. Taste before adding more salt or pepper to ensure balanced flavors.
• Skipping the foil cover: Covering the casserole while baking helps trap moisture, ensuring the rice cooks properly and doesn’t dry out.
• Not letting it rest: Allow your casserole to cool slightly before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, portion out servings before freezing.

Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet over low heat. Stir until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

You can serve this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I ensure my rice cooks properly in the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Ensure you use the correct ratio of broth to rice as stated in the recipe to achieve perfectly cooked rice.

Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or changing up the cheese. Give this comforting dish a try, and enjoy its rich flavors!