Let me tell you, this French onion ground beef and rice casserole is an absolute favorite in my house! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, combining the savory flavors of French onion with hearty ground beef and tender rice. I love how simple it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Just toss everything together, let it bake, and voila! The aroma that fills the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to recipe for your family too!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create the ultimate comfort food experience! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean beef for a healthier option, but don’t worry about the fat; it adds flavor!
- 1 cup uncooked rice: Any long-grain variety works well; I usually go for jasmine or basmati.
- 2 cups beef broth: Homemade or store-bought, this adds depth to the dish.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup: This is a secret ingredient for creaminess; it makes everything richer.
- 1 packet French onion soup mix: This is where the magic happens—so much flavor in one little packet!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that gooey topping!
- 1 onion, chopped: A sweet onion works wonders, but any onion will do.
- Salt and pepper: Don’t forget to season to taste; it brings all the flavors together!
How to Prepare French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Let’s get cooking! This casserole is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have it in the oven in no time. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake.
- Brown the beef and onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5–7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Don’t forget to break up the meat as it cooks!
- Drain the fat: Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is essential for a less greasy casserole.
- Mix in the rest: Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and the French onion soup mix. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be creamy and well combined.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour everything into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure it’s all in one layer.
- Bake it: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This helps the rice cook perfectly in the broth.
- Add cheese: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil (watch out for that steam!). Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely!
And there you have it! A delicious French onion ground beef and rice casserole ready to be devoured. Get ready for that cozy, comforting vibe as you dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This French onion ground beef and rice casserole is sure to become a cherished dish in your home for so many reasons:
- Effortless preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal on the table without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Flavor explosion: The combination of savory beef, creamy soup, and rich French onion flavor creates a dish that’s bursting with taste!
- Comfort food at its best: This casserole is the definition of cozy; it’s perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings.
- One-dish wonder: Easy cleanup is a bonus since everything cooks in one baking dish!
- Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish; it’s a hit with the whole family!
Tips for Success
To make sure your French onion ground beef and rice casserole turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips:
- Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when browning the beef and onion. This step adds so much flavor, and you want that nice caramelization!
- Check your rice: Use long-grain rice for the best texture. If you prefer brown rice, just adjust the cooking time and liquid a bit.
- Season well: Taste and adjust the seasoning before baking. A little extra salt and pepper can really elevate the flavors!
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set up and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings—crispy fried onions or fresh herbs can add a delightful crunch and freshness!
Variations
If you want to switch things up a bit, here are some fun variations to try with your French onion ground beef and rice casserole:
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even try diced sausage for a flavorful kick!
- Vegetarian delight: Substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty veggie version; just keep the onion for that fantastic flavor!
- Cheesy goodness: Mix in different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a smoky flavor!
- Herb infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra layer of flavor that brightens the dish.
- Spice it up: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a bit of heat!
Feel free to experiment and make this casserole your own! It’s all about what you love most.
Nutritional Information
This French onion ground beef and rice casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient choices. Enjoy your hearty meal!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making your French onion ground beef and rice casserole? Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? If you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce for a lighter option.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. It should last for up to 3 months in the freezer!
How do I reheat it? For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven keeps the texture nice!
Can I add vegetables? Definitely! Throw in some frozen peas or chopped bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy chicken and rice casserole or this cheesy broccoli and chicken casserole!
Print
French onion ground beef and rice casserole: 7 Cozy Secrets
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, rice, and French onion flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat.
- Drain excess fat and stir in the rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and French onion soup mix.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms.
- Can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: french onion ground beef and rice casserole
