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 cozy family dinners or busy weeknights, this dish combines juicy ground beef, tender rice, and a delightful blend of seasonings. Its standout qualities include the creamy texture from sour cream and the crispy topping of French-fried onions, making it a favorite for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together in one pan, minimizing cleanup time and effort.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of French onion soup mix and beef broth infuses each bite with delicious savory notes.
- Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melted mozzarella or Swiss cheese, this dish is a cheese lover’s dream come true.
- Versatile Meal: Great for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s easy to make ahead and reheat.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make preparing your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly, ensuring a flavorful base for your casserole.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients thoroughly before baking.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for holding all the ingredients while providing enough space for even cooking.
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.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned.
2. Drain excess grease.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Mixture
In a large bowl:
1. Mix together the uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked ground beef and sour cream to the rice mixture:
1. Stir everything together until fully combined.
2. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese Topping
Spread the mixture evenly in the dish:
1. Top with shredded cheese.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole with foil:
1. Bake for 40 minutes.
Step 7: Melt Cheese
Remove the foil:
1. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Add Crunchy Onions
Sprinkle French-fried onions on top:
1. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Serve
Let cool slightly before serving:
1. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy this delicious French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole as a satisfying meal that brings warmth to any table!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serving French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is easy and versatile. This hearty dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a warm, family-style meal. Simply set it in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
With Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad pairs wonderfully with this casserole. The freshness of the greens balances the rich flavors of the beef and cheese.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish individual servings with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Paired with Bread Rolls
- Serve alongside warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce left on the plate.
As Leftovers
- This casserole makes excellent leftovers! Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal during busy weekdays.
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.
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Use Quality Beef: Choose lean ground beef for better flavor without excess grease. This helps create a healthier dish while maintaining taste.
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Cook Rice Separately: For a fluffier texture, cook the rice separately before mixing it into the casserole. This prevents it from becoming too mushy.
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Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or peas into the mix for extra nutrition and flavor. They add color and crunch to each bite.
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Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is delicious, try mixing in Swiss or cheddar cheese for different flavor profiles that complement the onion soup mix.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking. Adjust salt, pepper, or garlic powder as needed to suit your preference.
Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
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Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the casserole’s flavors perfectly while adding a crunchy texture.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, making it a healthy choice alongside this hearty dish.
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine and creamy dressing, balancing the richness of the casserole.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out natural sugars when caramelized, making them a delightful contrast.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of ground beef and cheese.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob offers a fun, casual side that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
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Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be served plain or loaded with toppings, allowing guests to customize their meal.
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Mixed Vegetable Medley: A medley of seasonal vegetables adds variety and color to your table while providing essential nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:
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Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the ground beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Always salt and pepper your meat for enhanced taste.
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Using the wrong type of rice – Opting for quick-cooking rice instead of long-grain white rice can affect the texture. Stick with long-grain rice for the best results.
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Not preheating the oven – Baking without a preheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to 350°F (175°C) before starting.
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Overcrowding the casserole dish – Filling the dish too full can prevent even cooking and browning. Ensure you use an appropriate-sized baking dish.
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Neglecting to cover while baking – Failing to cover the casserole with foil in the first part of baking may cause it to dry out. Always cover it initially to keep moisture in.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Best if used within 2-3 months for quality preservation.
Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to prevent sticking, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:
What is French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty dish made with seasoned ground beef, rice, and rich flavors of French onion soup topped with cheese.
Can I customize my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch up the cheese according to your taste preferences.
How do I know when my casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, typically after about 50-55 minutes of baking at 350°F (175°C).
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping during busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is sure to become a family favorite with its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness. It’s versatile enough for customization; feel free to experiment with different ingredients. Enjoy this delightful recipe any night of the week!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth and flavors of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, a dish that epitomizes comfort food. This easy-to-make one-pan meal features juicy ground beef, tender long-grain rice, and a savory blend of French onion soup mix and beef broth. Topped with creamy mozzarella or Swiss cheese and crunchy French-fried onions, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or warm bread rolls for a complete meal that everyone will love.
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, cook ground beef until browned; 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 until well mixed.
- Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream; transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover with foil; bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle with French-fried onions and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
