French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful meal that combines rich flavors with a comforting texture. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for those busy days when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your family’s tastes.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 900 mg
Why Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also packed with comforting flavors that everyone loves. It includes ingredients that are staples in many pantries, making it convenient to whip up any night of the week. The creamy texture from the soups and the gooey cheese on top makes it a meal that will please both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a great source of protein thanks to the ground beef, and the rice provides a filling base, leaving you feeling satisfied after every bite.
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
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in the French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, rice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover, stir, and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serve your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread. A side of steamed vegetables also works beautifully to add some color and crunch to the meal. For a zesty kick, consider pairing it with a tangy dipping sauce or a dollop of sour cream.
How to Store French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Store any leftovers of your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating it.
Expert Tips for Cooking French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
- Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- To enhance its cheesy goodness, try mixing different types of cheese or adding cream cheese for creaminess.
- Use low-sodium soups and broth to control the sodium content.
- Make sure to let the casserole rest after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
Delicious Variations of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
If you want to spice things up, try adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. For a herbed version, mix in some Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra aroma. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions about French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Is there a way to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but make sure to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time.
Conclusion
Try making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for a meal that is sure to delight the whole family. Its comforting flavors, ease of preparation, and ability to be customized make it a perfect choice for any dinner table. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for less grease.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can French onion soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth Low-sodium option recommended.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked Brown rice can be used with adjusted cooking time.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese Mix different types of cheese for flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in the French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, rice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Baking
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover, stir, and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
