French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and gooey cheese into a delightful one-pan meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, providing an easy yet satisfying experience. With rich flavors from French onion soup mix and beef broth, this casserole stands out as both delicious and convenient. Plus, it’s topped with crispy fried onions and melted cheese, making every bite utterly irresistible.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for hectic evenings.

One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one baking dish.
Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of French onion soup mix and broth delivers deep, savory flavors.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, this casserole is sure to satisfy all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To make the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole successfully, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you prepare each ingredient efficiently and ensure even cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef evenly while allowing for easy draining of excess fat.

Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the ingredients thoroughly before transferring them to the baking dish.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

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). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat:
Cook the ground beef until browned.
Drain any excess grease.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
Mix together uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well combined.

Step 4: Add Beef and Sour Cream

Stir in the cooked ground beef along with sour cream until everything is fully combined. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Top the casserole with shredded cheese. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil after 40 minutes. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Step 7: Add Fried Onions

Sprinkle French-fried onions on top of the casserole. Bake for another 5 minutes until they are golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to make it easier to cut portions.

This easy-to-follow recipe results in a tasty French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that your family will love! Enjoy comfort food at its finest!

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

A crisp green salad pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the casserole. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Pair with Garlic Bread

Serve warm garlic bread on the side to complement the savory taste of the casserole. It’s great for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Include Steamed Vegetables

A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrition to your plate. The freshness balances the casserole’s richness.

Top with Extra Cheese

For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional mozzarella or Swiss cheese on individual servings. Melt it under the broiler for an extra indulgent touch.

Offer Hot Sauce

Provide hot sauce on the table for guests who enjoy a bit of heat. A few dashes can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top adds a burst of flavor and makes for an appealing presentation.

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.

Use high-quality beef broth – Opting for a rich beef broth enhances the overall flavor of your casserole.
Allow it to rest – Letting the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking makes it easier to serve.
Customize with vegetables – Feel free to add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Cover while baking – Keeping it covered during the first part of baking helps retain moisture, ensuring fluffy rice.
Check rice doneness – Ensure that the rice is fully cooked before removing from the oven; if needed, add a little more broth.
Experiment with cheeses – Try different types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors in your casserole.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Complementing your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with tasty sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

Caesar Salad – A traditional Caesar salad provides crunch and tang with romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These crispy sprouts seasoned with balsamic glaze bring earthy flavors that pair well with the casserole.

Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of your main dish.
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice that can soak up any delicious juices from the casserole.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds brightness and sweetness to balance out savory flavors.

Baked Zucchini Fries – These healthy fries are crunchy and delicious, providing a great alternative to traditional fries.
Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make a nutritious addition to your meal.
Sweet Potato Wedges – Roasted sweet potato wedges add sweetness and texture that complements the casserole beautifully.

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 tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a bland flavor. Make sure to cook it until nicely browned for a richer taste.
Ignoring the rest time: Cutting into the casserole right after baking can result in a messy serving. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to set up and make serving easier.

Using uncooked rice incorrectly: Adding uncooked rice directly without enough liquid can lead to undercooked rice. Always ensure you have enough broth for proper cooking.
Overloading with cheese: While cheese adds deliciousness, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for balanced flavors.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your mixture before baking may leave it bland. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before transferring to the baking dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.

Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that you might find helpful.

Can I use different types of cheese in French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella or Swiss cheese with other melty cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied flavor.

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

Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

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

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it unbaked in the fridge, then bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings based on your family’s taste preferences. This comforting one-pan dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering. Give it a try, and enjoy every satisfying bite!

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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, a delightful one-pan meal that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and gooey cheese for a satisfying dining experience. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, combining the rich taste of French onion soup mix with savory beef broth. Topped with crispy fried onions and melted cheese, each bite is utterly irresistible. Quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

In a mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir in the cooked beef and sour cream until well blended.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.