Name: French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485966H56M39S
Total time: PT-485966H56M39S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

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This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a warm, hearty dish perfect for busy nights or cozy family meals. With tender ground beef, savory French onion flavor, and a satisfying layer of rice, it’s a comforting one-pan meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s so easy to prepare and packed with comforting flavors. The combination of sweet and savory French onion soup, juicy ground beef, and fluffy rice creates a harmonious dish that’s both filling and delicious. Plus, it’s a one-pan casserole, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe is also incredibly versatile, so I can tweak it depending on what I have in my pantry. It’s great for busy evenings or when I’m craving a simple but tasty dinner.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
Stir in the uncooked rice, French onion soup, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people. It takes around 10 minutes to prep, 35-40 minutes to cook, and 5 minutes of resting time once out of the oven.

Variations

For a healthier version, I can substitute the ground beef with lean turkey or chicken.
If I want a bit more texture, adding some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers could elevate the dish.
To make it spicier, I could sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the beef.

Storage/Reheating

I can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, I simply microwave the casserole for a few minutes or reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through. If it seems a bit dry, I can add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to bake it, I’ll follow the recipe directions, but I might need to add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

I wouldn’t recommend using instant rice because it may not absorb the liquid properly, and the casserole might end up too watery or undercooked. It’s best to stick with uncooked long-grain rice.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! I can wrap the leftovers tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, I can bake it directly from frozen or thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

Can I use a different type of soup?

I prefer using French onion soup for that rich, caramelized onion flavor, but I could experiment with other soups like cream of mushroom or even cream of celery for a different twist.

Can I add more cheese?

Of course! I can add more cheese on top if I want a gooier, cheesier casserole. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives a nice balance of flavor and texture, but I can use any cheese I like.

Conclusion

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe that I’ll keep coming back to again and again. The hearty blend of ground beef, rice, and savory French onion soup makes for a comforting, satisfying meal every time!