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 quick weeknight meals, this dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a delightful topping of melted cheese and crispy French-fried onions. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while delivering satisfying flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in just over an hour.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of French onion soup mix and beef broth creates a deeply savory flavor profile that enhances the dish.
- One-Pan Wonder: This casserole comes together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze after a hearty meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables or using different types of cheese based on your preference.
- Comforting Dish: Ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Perfect for browning ground beef evenly while allowing for easy mixing of ingredients.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: The ideal size for layering ingredients, ensuring even cooking throughout the casserole.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your ingredients smoothly before transferring them to the baking dish.
Ingredients
Main 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
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. This ensures that your casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
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 Rice Mixture
In a large bowl:
Mix together 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.
Sour cream until everything is evenly mixed together.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Assemble Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly in the dish, then:
Top with shredded cheese.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole with foil:
Bake for 40 minutes.
Step 7: Bake Uncovered
Remove foil:
Bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Add French-Fried Onions
Sprinkle French-fried onions on top:
Bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this delightful French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty dish that can be served in various ways to complement its rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad pair well with the casserole’s richness.
Add Some Bread
- Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy goodness on your plate.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft, buttery rolls can add a comforting touch and are great for sopping up the casserole.
Top it Off
- Chopped Fresh Herbs – Sprinkling fresh parsley or chives on top before serving adds color and flavor.
- Sour Cream Drizzle – A dollop of sour cream can provide a cool contrast to the warm casserole.
How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To make your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole even better, consider these helpful tips for the best results.
- Use Quality Beef – Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed, depending on your preference.
- Experiment with Cheese – Mix different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for added flavor complexity.
- Let it Rest – Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together.
Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serving side dishes alongside your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can enhance the meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots provide a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with beef dishes.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw can offer a refreshing bite, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
- Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with almonds add crunch and elegance.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings a seasonal touch that complements this comforting dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
This section highlights common pitfalls when making the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Avoiding these will ensure a successful dish.
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Always cook until browned and drain excess fat for the best taste.
- Using instant rice: Instant rice won’t absorb the flavors as well as long-grain white rice. Stick to uncooked long-grain rice for optimal results.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: If you pack too much into your baking dish, it may not cook evenly. Ensure there’s enough room for heat circulation.
- Not covering while baking: Failing to cover the casserole initially can lead to dry rice and uneven cooking. Use foil during the first part of baking to retain moisture.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Depending on your broth and soup mix, you might need more or less salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as necessary for balanced flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap in foil.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 2 minutes until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that may help you enjoy this dish even more!
How can I customize my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Feel free to use different cheeses based on your preference.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
What should I serve with my casserole?
Pair your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for busy nights. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it truly your own!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the warm comfort of our French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, a delightful one-pan meal that combines seasoned ground beef, tender long-grain rice, and a creamy blend of French onion soup and beef broth. Topped with gooey melted cheese and crispy French-fried onions, this dish is perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 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
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Add the cooked beef and sour cream to the rice mixture; stir until combined.
- Transfer to the baking dish; top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Sprinkle with French-fried onions; 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 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
