If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in warm, cozy flavors with every bite, the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. This casserole combines the rich, caramelized onion taste from classic French onion soup with hearty ground beef and comforting rice, all topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s a one-dish wonder perfect for family dinners or anytime you want something satisfying yet simple that feels like a hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each adding a unique flavor or texture that makes the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe truly special. From the savory meat to the cheesy topping, every component works in harmony to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.
- 1 pound Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balanced flavor without excess grease.
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice: Day-old rice works best as it soaks up the flavors perfectly without getting mushy.
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup: This is the star flavor, bringing that iconic sweet and savory onion punch.
- 1 cup Sour Cream: Adds a creamy tang and richness; Greek yogurt works well as a lighter alternative.
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible cheesy crust; try Gruyère or provolone for variety.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Provides buttery depth when sautéing the beef; olive oil is a handy lighter substitute.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Boosts onion flavor to complement the soup mix.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle garlicky warmth.
- Salt: Essential to bring out all the savory flavors.
- Pepper: Gives a gentle kick that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley brightens the dish visually and with a fresh herbal note.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or oil to make sure nothing sticks and everything bakes evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, melt about one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s perfectly browned and no pink remains. This browning step not only cooks the meat but develops a savory base flavor that will shine through the whole casserole.
Step 3: Season the Beef
Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef. Stir well and cook for another two minutes so the spices have a chance to infuse the meat, creating a deep, layered flavor that mimics those classic French onion soup notes.
Step 4: Mix in Rice, Soup, and Sour Cream
Transfer the beef mixture to a large bowl, then add the cooked white rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Gently fold everything together until fully combined, ensuring each bite delivers a creamy, savory punch with tender beef and fluffy rice.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in your greased casserole dish. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. This cheese layer will bake into a bubbly, golden crown that’s as delicious as it looks.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for melted, bubbly cheese and a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen with pure comfort vibes. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to set up nicely.
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing off your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal lift that balances the rich flavors, making every bite feel even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal veggies offers a refreshing contrast in texture and brightness, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins and top each with a little extra cheese and parsley for a personalized touch. You might also add caramelized onions on top to double down on that classic French onion flavor, impressing your guests with both flavor and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe leftovers store wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a perfect lunch or quick dinner option.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking or after it’s cooled post-bake. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container to keep it fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and cheese is bubbly—about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave servings on medium power to avoid drying out the beef and rice.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well for this recipe, but since it takes longer to cook, make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing with the beef. It adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, just double-check that the condensed French onion soup you use is gluten-free or make your own soup base to ensure it fits your dietary needs.
Can I substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken makes a leaner option. Just be mindful that the flavor might be lighter, so seasoning well is key.
What if I don’t have condensed French onion soup?
Homemade caramelized onions with beef broth and a touch of balsamic vinegar can mimic the soup’s flavor beautifully. It’s a great option for customizing the casserole exactly to your taste.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be stirred in when mixing the rice and beef to add extra flavor and nutrition without overpowering the classic elements.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again. Easy to prepare and packed with layers of comforting flavors, it feels both indulgent and homey all at once. Give it a try and discover your new favorite way to enjoy that classic French onion charm combined with hearty ground beef and fluffy rice.
Print
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
This comforting French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy cooked rice, and the rich flavor of condensed French onion soup, all baked to perfection with a melty mozzarella cheese topping. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that delivers on taste and satisfaction.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef (lean recommended)
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup
- 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt as a lower-fat substitute)
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Butter (or olive oil as a lighter alternative)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, melt about one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Season the Beef: Season the cooked ground beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and seasoned ground beef with the cooked white rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Gently fold the mixture until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the beef and rice mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh and colorful finish.
Notes
- Using day-old rice helps absorb the flavors better and prevents the casserole from becoming mushy.
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and butter with olive oil.
- Try swapping mozzarella with Gruyère or provolone cheese for additional flavor variations.
- Homemade French onion soup can be used instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- Adding vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers can boost nutrition and flavor.
