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 one-pan meal combines juicy ground beef with savory French onion soup mix and tender rice, all topped with melted cheese and crispy French-fried onions. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages and provides a satisfying taste of home.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• Additional Ingredients
• How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Mix Ingredients
• Step 4: Combine Beef Mixture
• Step 5: Add Cheese
• Step 6: Bake Covered
• Step 7: Bake Uncovered
• Step 8: Add Crunchy Topping
• Step 9: Cool Before Serving
• How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Family Style
• With Fresh Herbs
• On Individual Plates
• With Salad
• Accompanied by Bread
• Topped with Additional Cheese
• How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of meat in this casserole?
• How can I customize my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
• What should I serve with my casserole?
• Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this casserole in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of ground beef, rice, and French onion soup creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal. It’s great for any occasion!
• Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Cheesy Goodness: Topped with gooey cheese and crunchy onions, each bite is packed with delightful textures.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the following essential tools before you start preparing the casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly, which enhances the flavor of the casserole.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for holding all the ingredients while they bake together harmoniously.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all the ingredients thoroughly before transferring them to the baking dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 packet French onion soup mix
• 2 cups beef broth

Additional Ingredients

• 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: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth.
2. Stir well until everything is mixed.

Step 4: Combine Beef Mixture

Add cooked ground beef and sour cream into the rice mixture:
1. Mix until evenly combined.
2. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add Cheese

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: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil:
1. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Add Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle French-fried onions on top:
1. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Let cool slightly before serving:
1. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously comforting French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This hearty French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Family Style

• Serve directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style dinner that encourages everyone to dig in together.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor that elevates the dish.

On Individual Plates

• For a more refined presentation, serve portions on individual plates, drizzled with a bit of extra beef broth for added moisture.

With Salad

• Pair with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole and add some crunch.

Accompanied by Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to soak up any delicious sauce left on the plate.

Topped with Additional Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle extra cheese on top right before serving for an indulgent finish.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Perfecting your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is easier than you think. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use quality beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option that still provides great flavor.
• Soak the rice: Rinse your uncooked rice under cold water to remove excess starch, leading to fluffier rice.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate diced onions or bell peppers into the mixture for added texture and nutrition.
• Control moisture: If your casserole seems too dry, add a splash more beef broth during cooking for optimal creaminess.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
• Experiment with cheese: Try mixing different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Complementing your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice that pairs perfectly with casseroles, allowing you to scoop up every last bite.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds freshness that balances the richness of the casserole.
3. Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans bring color and nutrients while keeping it healthy.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, perfect for cutting through the rich flavors of beef.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized sprouts provide earthy flavors that complement the savory notes in the casserole.
6. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes can absorb flavors from the casserole, creating a comforting combination.
7. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to savory dishes, making each bite interesting.
8. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with veggies can provide a lighter option full of nutrients alongside hearty casserole servings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole even more delicious.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the ground beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the taste.
• Using the wrong rice – Choosing a rice variety other than long-grain white rice can affect the texture. Stick with long-grain white for the best results.
• Not letting it rest – Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool slightly before serving for better presentation.
• Overcooking or undercooking – Baking times are crucial. Follow the recommended time closely to ensure everything is cooked thoroughly without being overdone.
• Ignoring the topping – Skipping the French-fried onions means missing out on a delightful crunch. Make sure to add them for added texture and flavor.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

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

• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil while reheating for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.

Can I use other types of meat in this casserole?

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adjust seasonings as needed.

How can I customize my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition!

What should I serve with my casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep, as it reheats well and maintains its flavor.

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or planning ahead for busy nights, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings!