If you are craving a cozy, hearty dish that brings rich flavors together in perfect harmony, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender ground beef with savory French onion soup and cheesy goodness over fluffy white rice, this casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. It’s a wonderful crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of comforting flavor and creamy texture. These simple staples come together beautifully, ensuring your casserole tastes wholesome and indulgent without requiring a long shopping list.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep it hearty but not greasy.
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice: Using day-old rice helps the grains stay fluffy and soak up all the flavors.
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup: This is the soul of the dish, delivering deep onion flavor and savory richness.
- 1 cup Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the beef and soup.
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melted gooey cheese ties the whole casserole together perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Helps brown the beef and adds silky richness; olive oil can be a lighter substitute.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Boosts the onion flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: A subtle hint of garlic rounds out the seasonings beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning all elements and highlighting their individual flavors.
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness when sprinkled on top.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later on. Setting this up early will make the final assembly quick and seamless.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt about a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step is key for developing deep savory flavors that form the base of your casserole.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the browned beef. Stir everything well to coat the meat evenly with these seasonings, letting it cook for another couple of minutes so the flavors get fully absorbed. This quick step really amplifies the taste.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the cooked beef into a mixing bowl and mix it with the cooked rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Fold these ingredients gently but thoroughly to combine the creamy, beefy, and flavorful components into one cohesive mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread your beef and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Then generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. This layer of cheese guarantees a bubbly, golden finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. During this time, the cheese melts beautifully and the casserole heats through completely, melding all the flavors into one irresistible dish.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This helps it set slightly so it’s easier to serve. Before diving in, sprinkle chopped parsley on top to add a burst of color and fresh flavor that enhances the presentation and taste.
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple yet effective garnishes elevate the dish beyond its comforting base. Fresh chopped parsley adds vibrant color and a subtle bright note that contrasts the cheesy richness perfectly. You can also sprinkle a pinch of extra cracked black pepper or a few scallions for a bit of zing.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a fulfilling main course but pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides balances the meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or steamed broccoli. These will provide a pleasant crunch and nutritional boost.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests by scooping the casserole into individual ramekins for a charming presentation or use mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic touch. Another fun idea is layering it into a trifle dish to show off its cheesy, beefy layers through the glass. No matter how you present it, the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe will shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it often tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal meal for busy days.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep this casserole for longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to ensure even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese bubbles again. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works as a nutritious alternative, but it may require longer cooking and a slightly different texture. Using pre-cooked brown rice will help maintain the right casserole consistency.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils to keep it hearty. Make sure your French onion soup is vegetarian-friendly to keep the flavors authentic.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, just pop it in the oven and add extra baking time if needed since it’ll be cold.
What cheese options work besides mozzarella?
Gruyère, provolone, or a mild cheddar are excellent choices that bring their own delicious twist. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite cheesy flavor combination.
How can I make this recipe lower calorie?
Using lean ground beef, substituting sour cream with Greek yogurt, reducing the cheese amount, or replacing butter with olive oil can help lighten the dish without sacrificing too much flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely comforting and satisfying about this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe that makes it a go-to for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, you’ll love how easy it is to bring so much flavor and warmth to the table. I encourage you to try making this cozy casserole and share the love of comfort food with those around you.
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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 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 ground beef, flavorful French onion soup, tender rice, and melted mozzarella cheese baked to perfection, ideal for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef (lean ground beef recommended)
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup
- 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a lower-fat alternative)
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Butter (olive oil as a lighter substitute)
- 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 dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, melt about one tablespoon of butter over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook until it is browned and no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
- Season Beef: Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the browned beef. Stir and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and seasoned beef with the cooked white rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Gently fold the mixture until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Prepare Casserole: Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to form a uniform layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture to create a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or 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 to settle. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps absorb flavors better and prevents sogginess in the casserole.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Consider using Gruyère or provolone cheese for a different cheesy flavor profile.
- For a healthier alternative, use lean ground beef or swap butter with olive oil.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked fresh to save time on busy days.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
