French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. This one-pan dish combines savory ground beef, creamy rice, and rich French onion flavor, topped with gooey cheese and crispy French-fried onions. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that will please your family and guests, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a cozy, hearty dish that brings together some of the best flavors in comfort food. The combination of ground beef, creamy rice, and the signature French onion flavor makes it an irresistible meal. Topped with melted cheese and crispy French-fried onions, every bite is a flavorful experience. It’s also super easy to prepare, making it a great option for those who need a delicious meal with minimal effort. Plus, it’s highly customizable—add vegetables, switch up the cheese, or even experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. This casserole is a sure way to turn a regular dinner into something special!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

3. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
   In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir until well mixed.

4. Combine and Transfer:
   Add the cooked ground beef and sour cream to the rice mixture, and mix until fully combined. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish.

5. Top with Cheese and Bake:
   Top the rice mixture with the shredded cheese. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

6. Finish Baking:
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Add French-Fried Onions:
   Sprinkle French-fried onions on top of the casserole and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.

8. Cool and Serve:
   Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 6 servings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 55 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Storage/Reheating

• Storage:
  Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating:
  To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, covering it with a microwave-safe lid to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice like brown rice or jasmine rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time, especially if you’re using brown rice, as it takes longer to cook.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and bake it the next day.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. You can also use ground chicken if preferred.

4. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap the mozzarella or Swiss cheese for cheddar, gouda, or a cheese of your choice. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change depending on the cheese used.

6. Can I use low-sodium broth?

Yes, you can use low-sodium beef broth if you prefer to reduce the sodium content in the dish.

7. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Just assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.

8. Can I make this casserole without sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor, or use cream cheese if you’d like a richer texture.

9. What other seasonings can I add to the casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, for added flavor. You can also add a bit of hot sauce or chili flakes if you like a spicier dish.

10. Is this casserole gluten-free?

This casserole is not gluten-free as it uses French onion soup mix, which often contains gluten. However, you can find gluten-free versions of the soup mix or make your own homemade version to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines savory ground beef, creamy rice, and the rich taste of French onion. Topped with melted cheese and crispy French-fried onions, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight meal or a family gathering, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Plus, with its ability to be customized and prepared ahead of time, it’s a great go-to recipe for any occasion!