French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings warmth to any table. This casserole is simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its savory flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a comfort food favorite.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Why Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just delicious; it’s also a healthy, one-pan meal that combines multiple food groups for a complete dinner. This dish is versatile; you can easily customize it based on your family’s preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice or ground beef, making it a cost-effective meal option.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Step by Step
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 tsp garlic powder
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add finely chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion with French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, long-grain rice, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Pair your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables to enhance the meal. A drizzle of a creamy dressing on the salad or a side of crusty bread can also elevate the dining experience. For those who enjoy heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper on top can add a zesty kick.
How to Store French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Storing your casserole is simple. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven until it’s heated through. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.
Expert Tips for Cooking French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Brown the ground beef thoroughly for maximum flavor.
- Use low-sodium soups and broth to control the sodium content in the dish.
- Feel free to add veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- For an extra cheesy touch, top the casserole with shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Delicious Variations of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a zesty version. You can also create a herbed version by incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mixture of your favorite vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions about French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
What can I use instead of French onion soup?
You can use a homemade onion broth or substitute it with another cream soup base for different flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes very well! Store it in an airtight container, and it should last up to three months in the freezer.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on trying French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for your next meal. This dish is bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to prepare, and offers endless possibilities for customization. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this comforting, hearty dish that everyone will love!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 10.5 oz can French onion soup
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth can use low-sodium
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add finely chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion with French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, long-grain rice, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
