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 combines juicy ground beef seasoned with French onion soup mix, tender rice, and a crunchy topping of cheese and French-fried onions. Its easy preparation makes it a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a hearty meal that warms the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of French onion soup mix and ground beef creates a robust taste that’s hard to resist.
- One-Pan Meal: This casserole requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy families.
- Customizable Ingredients: Swap out cheeses or add vegetables to suit your family’s preferences.
- Comforting Texture: With creamy rice and crispy toppings, each bite offers a delightful contrast.
- Easy Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance for stress-free weeknight dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef evenly.
- Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking, especially important for casseroles.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl makes combining ingredients easy without spilling.
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 to prepare it for the casserole.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat:
Cook the ground beef until browned.
Drain excess grease from the skillet.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Combine Rice Mixture
In a large bowl:
Mix together the uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well combined.
Step 4: Add Beef and Sour Cream
Stir in:
The cooked ground beef from Step 2.
Add sour cream to create a rich texture.
Mix everything together thoroughly before transferring it to the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese Topping
Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish:
Top with shredded cheese to create a bubbly layer as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole with foil:
Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil:
Bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Add Crunchy Onions
Sprinkle French-fried onions on top:
Bake for an additional 5 minutes until they turn golden brown.
Step 9: Serve with Care
Let cool slightly before serving:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your delicious French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This delicious French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy, communal meal.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
Individual Portions
- Dish out single servings in bowls for an elegant presentation.
- Top with additional French-fried onions for extra crunch.
Garnished Plates
- Add fresh parsley or chives as a garnish to brighten the dish visually.
- Drizzle with a bit of balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch.
Accompanied by Bread
- Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Consider garlic bread for an added layer of flavor.
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 Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality beef enhance the overall flavor of your casserole.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference before baking.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors and textures.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.
- Check Rice Doneness: Ensure rice is fully cooked; if not, cover with foil and bake longer if necessary.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving; this helps set the layers.
Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Pairing sides with your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad that adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli offers a healthy green option that complements this hearty dish.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a simple yet flavorful side that contrasts nicely with the casserole’s creaminess.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These bring a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the casserole.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing bite, perfect for cutting through the rich flavors of ground beef and cheese.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment, providing a satisfying texture contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you succeed.
- Skipping the Browning Step – Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a dull flavor. Make sure to cook it until it’s nicely browned for the best taste.
- Using Instant Rice – Using instant rice instead of long-grain can alter the casserole’s texture. Stick with long-grain white rice for even cooking and optimal consistency.
- Not Measuring Ingredients – Guessing measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Always measure your ingredients precisely for consistent results.
- Ignoring Rest Time – Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for better slicing.
- Overloading on Cheese – While cheese is delicious, too much can overwhelm other flavors. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced cheesy goodness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover casserole in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.
Can I use different types of cheese in French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Yes! You can substitute mozzarella or Swiss cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
How do I customize my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition or switch up spices according to your taste preferences.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it beforehand, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve, making it perfect for busy nights.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This casserole is great for meal prep as it reheats well and makes multiple servings, ensuring you have meals ready throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is ideal comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any kitchen table. Its flavors are rich, cheesy, and customizable based on what you have on hand. We encourage you to try this recipe—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the delightful comfort of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, a dish that marries rich flavors with cheesy goodness. This hearty meal brings together juicy ground beef seasoned with French onion soup mix, tender long-grain rice, and a crispy topping of melted cheese and French-fried onions. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. With its creamy texture and crunchy finish, each bite is a warm embrace that will satisfy your cravings and become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth.
- Stir in the cooked beef and sour cream until well mixed; transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top evenly with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Sprinkle French-fried onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
