French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful comfort food that brings together rich flavors and heartiness in one dish. This recipe marries tender ground beef with creamy rice and a savory French onion blend, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Every bite of this casserole is packed with flavor, which has made it a favorite in my kitchen. The aroma that fills the house while it cooks is just an added bonus!

Why You’ll Love Making It

There are plenty of reasons to embrace this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole! Firstly, it’s a quick and budget-friendly dish that doesn’t require hours of slaving over the stove. You can whip this up with minimal prep and still impress your guests or family. The combination of ground beef and rice offers filling comfort, while the French onion soup mix adds a unique and savory touch that elevates this dish beyond ordinary casserole recipes.

"This casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! It’s flavorful and the whole family loved it. I’ll definitely be making this again!" — Happy Home Cook

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even a make-ahead meal for busy weekends. On top of that, it’s kid-approved, making dinner a breeze when everyone is happy with what’s on their plate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making this casserole is simpler than you might think. You start with browning the ground beef, then combine it with rice and seasonings in a large bowl. With just a few more steps, you’re ready to get your casserole baking in the oven. It’s a straightforward process that yields delightful results!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef (can substitute with turkey)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 packet French onion soup mix
• 2 cups beef broth (can use low-sodium)
• ½ cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can substitute)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (choose your favorite!)
• ½ cup French-fried onions

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and drain any excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for flavor.
3. In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth; stir until well mixed.
4. Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream until everything is fully integrated.
5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Finally, sprinkle French-fried onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until they’re perfectly crispy.

Tips for Serving

What you serve alongside this flavorful casserole can elevate your dinner time even more! Consider a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or crusty rolls can also complement the flavors beautifully, providing a delightful crunch to soak up any casserole remnants.

Storage Tips

Storing leftovers from this casserole is a breeze! Once it’s cooled, cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the casserole before baking, allowing for a wholesome meal on a busy night. Just make sure to properly thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Expert Advice

To take this dish to new heights, consider a few professional kitchen tips:

• Experiment with different cheese varieties like cheddar or pepper jack for added zest.
• If you like a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced green chilies to the beef mixture.
• For a more intense flavor, sauté some onions and garlic before adding the beef.

Creative Twists

Feel like mixing it up? Here are some variations:

• Substitute brown rice for a healthier twist, adjusting the broth cooking time.
• For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for lentils or chopped mushrooms.
• Add a layer of fresh spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.

Your questions answered

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, but for the best flavor, beef broth is recommended.

How long should I bake this casserole?

Bake covered for 40 minutes and then uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking for a bubbly and golden cheese topping.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble and refrigerate it up to a day in advance. Just increase baking time by about 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.

Is it safe to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just ensure they are in an airtight container, and they should keep well for up to 2-3 months.

What sides go well with this dish?

Pair with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

No matter the occasion, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the deliciousness!

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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• Total Time: 70 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A delightful comfort food casserole combining ground beef, creamy rice, and savory French onion flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 packet French onion soup mix
• 2 cups beef broth (or low-sodium)
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• ½ cup French-fried onions

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and drain any excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth; stir until well mixed.
4. Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Sprinkle French-fried onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until crispy.

Notes

For a healthier version, substitute brown rice and adjust the cooking time. Feel free to vary cheeses or add vegetables like spinach.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, ground beef, easy dinner, family meal