Why Make This Recipe
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that is easy to make and perfect for family dinners. It combines the savory taste of ground beef with the rich flavor of French onion soup, all baked together with rice and cheese. This casserole is satisfying, and the addition of French-fried onions gives it a delightful crunch. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
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
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned; drain excess grease and season.
- In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth.
- Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream until well mixed; transfer to the baking dish.
- Spread evenly and top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Sprinkle French-fried onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also offer extra French-fried onions on the side for those who love a bit more crunch.
How to Store French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it before baking for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Tips to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat in the dish.
- Feel free to add veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you like a stronger onion flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions to the beef mixture.
Variations
You can change this recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also try different types of cheese, like cheddar or a mix of cheeses, to switch up the flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: It goes well with salads, steamed vegetables, or even crusty bread.
Q: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A: It should be bubbly and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden brown. You can check that the rice is cooked through as well.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce fat.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked) Ensure it's uncooked.
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese You can substitute with cheddar or other cheese.
- ½ cup French-fried onions Extra for serving if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned; drain excess grease and season.
- In a large bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth.
- Stir in the cooked ground beef and sour cream until well mixed; transfer to the baking dish.
- Spread evenly and top with shredded cheese.
Baking
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Sprinkle French-fried onions on top and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
