If you’re craving a cozy, flavor-packed meal that practically guarantees smiles around the table, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine all the deep, savory magic of classic French onion soup, but heartier, thanks to perfectly seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a golden lid of bubbling cheese. Not only is this casserole irresistibly delicious, but it’s also a breeze to put together, making it a true comfort food staple for busy families and anyone who loves easy, satisfying dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and that signature golden color on top.
- Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and protein, forming the base of the casserole.
- Olive oil: Helps sauté the onions and keeps everything from sticking.
- Yellow onion: Brings essential sweetness and depth, a nod to classic French onion soup.
- Condensed French onion soup: Packs in rich, savory flavor without extra fuss.
- Beef broth: Infuses the rice with robust, meaty goodness as it cooks.
- Long-grain white rice: Soaks up all the delicious juices and helps bind the casserole together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, creamy layer on top.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty punch to finish off the casserole.
- Garlic powder: Provides a subtle aromatic kick that complements the onions and beef.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for brightening and balancing all the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Offers a fresh, colorful pop for garnish.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and just begins to turn golden. This step is crucial for coaxing out that sweet, mellow flavor reminiscent of classic French onion soup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. If there’s excess grease, go ahead and drain it off to keep your casserole from getting too heavy.
Step 3: Mix in the Liquids and Rice
Pour in the condensed French onion soup, beef broth, and uncooked long-grain white rice. Stir everything together so the rice is evenly distributed and fully coated with those savory juices. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for a minute or two—this helps the rice begin to absorb all that flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap in the moisture, then bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 45 minutes. This gives the rice plenty of time to get perfectly tender while soaking up every bit of flavor from the beef and broth.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Let the casserole rest out of the oven for about 5 minutes before serving. This little pause helps everything set up and makes it easier to scoop. If you like, sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of green and a bit of herby brightness to each serving. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try a few thinly sliced green onions or even some crispy fried onions on top for crunch.
Side Dishes
Since this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is so hearty, keep your sides simple. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed green beans balances out the richness. Warm, crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small oven-safe ramekins or mini cocottes. You can also spoon the casserole over roasted vegetables or even stuff it into roasted bell peppers for a dinner party-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply cover the baking dish tightly or transfer portions to airtight containers, and store for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers are a treat!
Freezing
This casserole is a freezer superstar. Cool it completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20–25 minutes. For quicker meals, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring between each, until piping hot. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and may require a bit more liquid. Add an extra 1/2 cup of broth and extend the covered baking time by about 15–20 minutes to ensure the rice is tender.
Is there a way to make this casserole even creamier?
Yes! Stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream before baking to give the casserole extra richness and a subtle tang. It’s a simple addition that makes every bite even more luscious.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely. Sautéed mushrooms or a handful of frozen peas are delicious additions that blend in seamlessly. You can also toss in diced bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
What can I substitute for French onion soup?
If you can’t find condensed French onion soup, try using beef broth with a generous amount of caramelized onions and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. It won’t be identical, but you’ll still capture those savory, oniony flavors.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Be sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during the first bake to trap in steam. If reheating, add a splash of beef broth and cover with foil to keep everything moist and delicious.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole enough when you need a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Give it a try the next time you want a meal that feels like a warm hug—and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!
Print
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal combining savory ground beef, caramelized onions, and tender rice baked in flavorful French onion soup and beef broth. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, it makes a perfect family dinner with easy prep and bake time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the diced onion until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula for even cooking. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the condensed French onion soup, beef broth, and uncooked long-grain white rice, mixing until combined and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture while baking.
- Bake Covered: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to cook the rice and meld flavors.
- Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For added richness, stir in 1/4 cup sour cream into the mixture before baking.
- Include sautéed mushrooms or a handful of frozen peas for additional flavor and nutrition.
- This casserole freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
