French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a meal prep option, this comforting casserole is sure to impress. With its rich taste and cheesy topping, it’s an easy one-pan dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation – This casserole comes together in just a few simple steps, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed – The combination of ground beef and French onion soup mix creates a rich, savory flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Cheesy Goodness – Topped with melted cheese and crispy French-fried onions, each bite offers a delicious crunch and creamy texture.
- Versatile Meal – It works well as a main dish or can be served alongside salads and vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare it in advance and simply bake when ready to serve, saving you time in the kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet – Ideal for browning the ground beef quickly while infusing flavor from seasonings.
- Large mixing bowl – Provides enough space to mix all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – The perfect size for evenly cooking your casserole, helping it heat through completely.
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) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Brown 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: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Mix together uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well combined.
2. Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Spread the mixture evenly in the dish:
– Top with shredded cheese.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole with foil:
– Bake for 40 minutes.
Step 6: Bake Uncovered
After 40 minutes:
– Remove the foil.
– Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Add Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle French-fried onions on top:
– Bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Let cool slightly before serving:
– Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your hearty French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is perfect for any family gathering or cozy dinner. Serving it with complementary sides can elevate the experience even further.
Classic Pairings
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a great option for soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole.
Creative Twists
- Sautéed Vegetables: Stir-fried seasonal vegetables provide color and nutrition, making your meal more balanced.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the flavors of the casserole.
Comfort Additions
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer an extra layer of comfort and pair well with the savory beef.
- Pickles: Serving pickles on the side introduces a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish.
How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To ensure your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and quality cheese will enhance the overall flavor of your casserole.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture before baking to adjust salt, pepper, or garlic powder according to your preference.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Add More Cheese: For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional cheese on top before baking for a gooey finish.
Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Pairing your casserole with delicious side dishes can complete your meal perfectly. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the casserole.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful contrast in flavor and is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that complements beef well.
- Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add sweetness and texture, making them an excellent side choice.
- Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb option, creamy cauliflower mash provides all the comfort without excess carbs.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of hearty casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Not Browning the Beef Properly – Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a bland flavor. Ensure you cook it until it’s nicely browned for depth in taste.
- Incorrect Rice Measurement – Using too much or too little rice can affect the casserole’s texture. Always measure uncooked rice accurately for best results.
- Skipping Seasoning Adjustments – Relying solely on the soup mix might make your dish under-seasoned. Taste before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Overcooking the Cheese Topping – Leaving the casserole in the oven too long can result in burnt cheese. Keep an eye on it during the last minutes of baking.
- Not Letting It Rest – Cutting into the casserole right away can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving for better slices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:
Can I use other types of meat for this casserole?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat if you prefer a lighter option.
How do I spice up my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or mix in different spices such as paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
What sides go well with this casserole?
Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors.
How do I store leftovers of my Ground Beef Rice Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for later use.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just delicious but also versatile! It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful comfort food that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy rice, and savory French onion soup mix. This one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. With a cheesy topping and crispy French-fried onions, every bite is a delicious blend of textures and tastes. Whether served alone or alongside fresh salads, this casserole promises to warm your heart and fill your belly.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir in the cooked beef and sour cream until mixed well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle French-fried onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
