French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and cheesy goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish combines savory ground beef with tender rice, all brought together by the deliciousness of French onion soup mix. With its easy preparation and satisfying flavors, it’s a meal that everyone will love!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole
• For Creaminess and Flavor
• For Topping
• How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
• Step 3: Combine Rice Mixture
• Step 4: Mix in Beef and Sour Cream
• Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
• Step 6: Bake Covered
• Step 7: Bake Uncovered
• Step 8: Add Topping
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Garnish Ideas
• Accompaniments
• Serving Style
• Beverage Pairings
• How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
• Can I customize the recipe?
• How do I know when it’s done cooking?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together in just a few simple steps, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of French onion soup mix and beef broth creates an incredibly rich taste that elevates the dish.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one baking dish, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out cheese or add vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Comforting and Satisfying: This dish provides a hearty serving that warms the heart and fills the stomach.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into our French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula for mixing

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly, enhancing flavor before combining with other ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients easily and ensures thorough mixing for even cooking.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures your casserole cooks evenly without overflowing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your casserole.

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

For Creaminess and Flavor

• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese

For Topping

• 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) while preparing the other ingredients. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal of the casserole after baking.

Step 2: Cook Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned, stirring occasionally.
2. Drain excess grease from the skillet.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, mixing well.

Step 3: Combine Rice Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix in Beef and Sour Cream

Add:
1. The cooked ground beef mixture into the bowl with rice.
2. Stir in sour cream, mixing until everything is evenly combined.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish:
1. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish.
2. Top with shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the casserole with foil:
1. Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Step 7: Bake Uncovered

After 40 minutes:
1. Remove the foil.
2. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Add Topping

Sprinkle French-fried onions on top:
1. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then enjoy this comforting meal!

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Serving your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can be as delightful as preparing it. This casserole is versatile, making it a great centerpiece for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Chopped Green Onions: These provide a mild crunch and enhance the flavor profile.

Accompaniments

• Crispy Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light and crunchy contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a hearty meal that complements the casserole.

Serving Style

• Family Style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a cozy family gathering.
• Individual Portions: Spoon into smaller dishes for an elegant presentation at dinner parties.

Beverage Pairings

• Red Wine: A light red wine pairs beautifully with the flavors of beef and cheese.
• Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea can balance the richness of the casserole nicely.

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How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

To achieve the best results with your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, consider these helpful tips:

• Seasoning: Don’t be shy with seasonings; adjusting salt and pepper enhances flavor depth.
• Cheese Variety: Mixing mozzarella with Swiss cheese provides a unique taste and texture.
• Cooked Rice Option: Using pre-cooked rice can speed up preparation time without sacrificing taste.
• Rest Time: Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving for easier portioning.
• Make Ahead: Prepare ahead of time and store in the fridge; simply bake when ready to serve.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Pairing sides with your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Offers a nutritious green contrast that’s easy to prepare.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a crispy texture that complements the softness of the casserole.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic salad that provides crunch and creaminess to balance the dish.
4. Coleslaw: The tanginess of coleslaw pairs well with rich casseroles, adding freshness.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent experience alongside the casserole.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a pop of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not browning the beef properly: Ensure the ground beef is browned evenly. This enhances flavor and prevents it from being greasy.

• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your beef with salt and pepper. Proper seasoning elevates the dish’s overall taste.

• Using uncooked rice incorrectly: Make sure you mix the uncooked rice with the broth as directed. If not, it may turn out undercooked or mushy.

• Overcrowding the baking dish: Avoid overfilling your baking dish. This can lead to uneven cooking and prevent proper cheese melting.

• Neglecting to cover while baking: Covering your casserole for part of the baking time helps retain moisture and allows the rice to cook properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this casserole:

What is French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish combining seasoned ground beef, rice, French onion soup mix, and cheese.

Can I customize the recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when it’s done cooking?

The casserole is ready when it’s bubbly and the cheese has melted nicely. It should also be hot throughout.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

While you can substitute brown rice, keep in mind that it requires more cooking time and additional liquid.

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful comfort food that offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients!