If you’re craving a meal that wraps you in cozy, comforting flavors while delivering a satisfying, hearty bite, then you’ve got to try this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe. It brings together savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and the unmistakable richness of French onion soup, all topped with gooey melted cheese. This casserole is like a warm hug on a plate, perfectly layered with ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s such a cherished dish for family dinners and casual get-togethers alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started couldn’t be easier because the ingredients for this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe are wonderfully straightforward. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or that irresistible cheesy finish that everyone loves.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef keeps the dish tasty but less greasy.
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice: Day-old rice is perfect as it soaks up flavors without turning mushy.
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup: The star seasoning that infuses the casserole with that iconic French onion flavor.
- 1 cup Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want to lighten it up.
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a melty, stretchy topping—try Gruyère or provolone for a twist.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Gives richness; olive oil is a suitable alternative for a lighter touch.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Packs an extra punch of onion flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Enhances savory depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley: Optional, but it adds a fresh pop of color and brightness.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will come out perfectly baked with easy cleanup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt about one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as you go. This browning step adds great flavor and texture to your casserole.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Sprinkle the cooked beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it well, cooking an extra couple of minutes to let those spices meld into the meat. This seasoning layer is where your casserole starts building its distinctive French onion character.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Transfer the beef mixture to a mixing bowl. Add the cooked white rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Gently fold everything together until evenly combined, creating a creamy, flavorful base for the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the beef and rice mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over the top. Slide the casserole into the oven and bake it for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve. Finish by sprinkling chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant touch, and get ready to dig into this soul-soothing dish!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh chopped parsley adds a delightful splash of color and a hint of brightness that balances the casserole’s richness. If you want a little extra zing, a light drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of caramelized onions on top can elevate the presentation and flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. Think a green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans to add some crunch and freshness. A basket of crusty bread also makes a great companion to scoop up every last bite.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just mix things up, consider serving this casserole in individual ramekins for personalized servings. You can also layer it with extra cheese or mix in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra flavor complexity. Turning it into a layered casserole with alternating rice and beef layers adds a fun twist too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled tightly sealed ensures it stays moist and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Simply wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap and then foil or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. Microwaving works too for a quicker option, but baking helps maintain that delicious melted cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing it in since it takes longer to soften.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground beef alternative to keep the hearty texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
You can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed, adding extra few minutes if baking from cold.
What cheese works best if I don’t have mozzarella?
Gruyère, provolone, or even sharp cheddar are great options. They each bring a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the French onion soup base.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is mild and comforting, focusing on savory and rich flavors. If you want a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños when cooking the beef.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe that makes it a go-to comfort meal for any day of the week. It’s straightforward to prepare, deeply satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd or savoring as leftovers. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the delicious harmony of flavors that keep this casserole a beloved classic in my kitchen. Happy cooking!
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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, combining savory browned beef, flavorful French onion soup, creamy sour cream, and melty mozzarella cheese baked to perfection. Ideal for an easy weeknight dinner that serves six.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound lean Ground Beef
- 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt as a lower-fat alternative)
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (or Gruyère/provolone for variety)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (or olive oil as a lighter substitute)
Staples and Seasonings
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup (or homemade onion soup)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, melt about one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Season the Beef: Sprinkle the cooked beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to let the flavors develop thoroughly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the browned beef mixture, cooked white rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Gently fold everything together until ingredients are evenly combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the beef and rice mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley to add a fresh color contrast and brightness before serving.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps absorb flavors better than freshly cooked rice.
- Lean ground beef keeps the casserole meatier without excess fat.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter, protein-rich option.
- Try different cheeses like Gruyère or provolone for varied flavor profiles.
- Homemade French onion soup can enhance flavor if you have the time to prepare it.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set, making it easier to portion.
