French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and gooey cheese into a delightful one-pan dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole bursts with rich flavors from French onion soup mix and beef broth. Topped with crispy fried onions and melted cheese, every bite promises satisfaction.

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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: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 5: Bake Covered
• Step 6: Add Toppings
• Step 7: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Pair with Fresh Salad
• Top with Fresh Herbs
• Serve with Crusty Bread
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream
• Offer Hot Sauce on the Side
• Include Pickled Vegetables
• 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
• How do I make my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole creamier?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• What can I add to my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
• Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients found in most kitchens.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of ground beef, French onion soup, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one dish, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to suit your family’s tastes.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Needed to combine all ingredients thoroughly before baking.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch size is perfect for this casserole, allowing for even cooking.
• Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture while baking, ensuring the casserole remains tender.

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 with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground 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: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
Combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well mixed.
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 evenly across the dish.
Top with shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover with aluminum foil:
Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Step 6: Add Toppings

Remove foil:
Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Add French-fried onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

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

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your casserole experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or dinner rolls can be perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole.

Add a Dollop of Sour Cream

• A spoonful of sour cream on each serving adds creaminess and balances the savory flavors.

Offer Hot Sauce on the Side

• For those who enjoy a kick, serving hot sauce alongside can add an exciting heat to every bite.

Include Pickled Vegetables

• A side of pickled cucumbers or beets provides a tangy element that complements the richness of the 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, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for high-quality beef broth and fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

• Customize Your Veggies – Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and taste.

• Let It Rest – Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking aids in cutting neat portions.

• Adjust Seasoning – Taste the mixture before baking; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

• Experiment with Cheeses – Try different cheese blends, like cheddar or Gouda, for unique flavor profiles.

• Store Properly – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Complement your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with these delightful side dishes that will round out your meal beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread – This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the casserole.

2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.

3. Caesar Salad – A Caesar salad provides crisp textures and creamy dressing, balancing the rich flavors of the casserole.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These slightly caramelized sprouts add depth and are an excellent pairing with beef dishes.

5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, making it a great foil to the cheesy casserole.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory ground beef flavors.

7. Corn on the Cob – Fresh corn adds sweet juiciness that complements hearty casseroles perfectly.

8. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort while adding another layer of starchiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, a few common missteps can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can dry it out. Brown it just until no pink remains for a juicy casserole.
• Not measuring rice properly: Using too much or too little rice can alter the texture. Always measure uncooked rice to ensure perfect results.
• Skipping the broth: Omitting beef broth leads to a dry casserole. Use the recommended amount to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Neglecting cheese variety: Using only one type of cheese may limit flavor. Mix mozzarella and Swiss for a delightful cheesy experience.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately can result in a messy serving. Let it rest for about 10 minutes for better slices.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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 until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

How do I make my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole creamier?

Adding extra sour cream or cream cheese can enhance creaminess. Stir it into the mixture before baking.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so add additional broth and bake longer.

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

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor!

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at your table!