French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A Comforting Casserole Experience
There’s something irresistibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy casserole—especially one like this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. This dish seamlessly blends the rich flavors of caramelized onions and hearty ground beef with tender rice, making it the ultimate weeknight comfort food. Picture this: a busy weekday evening is winding down, the kids are hungry, and you need something easy yet delicious in a pinch. This hearty meal comes together effortlessly, turning your kitchen into a haven of warmth and nostalgia.
What Makes This Recipe Special
You’ll love this casserole for so many reasons! It’s not only a one-pan wonder that saves you time on cleanup, but it’s also utterly budget-friendly, using ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even cozy gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s a hit among kids and adults alike, ticking all the boxes for a meal that’s satisfying and wholesome.
"Absolutely loved this recipe! It reminded me of my childhood, and my kids couldn’t get enough of it. A true family favorite!" – Sarah J.
Preparing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Making this mouthwatering casserole is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by browning ground beef and caramelizing onions for that deep flavor. Everything comes together in one skillet before being transferred to a baking dish where it bakes to perfection. With just a little bit of your precious time and minimal effort, you’ll create a dish that feels like a warm hug.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white long-grain rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Feel free to swap the beef for turkey for a leaner option or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes until there’s no pink remaining; drain most of the fat, leaving roughly 1 tablespoon for added flavor.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and caramelize the onions over medium-low heat for 10–15 minutes, until they’re golden brown and fragrant.
- Next, add uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the skillet, stirring to blend everything together. Expect a slightly soupy texture.
- Transfer the delicious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven uncovered for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For that golden, toasty finish, broil for 1–2 minutes, but keep a watchful eye!
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set beautifully.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the meal further! Serve it alongside a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to add freshness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of crusty garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this cheesy delight.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To ensure your leftovers maintain their deliciousness, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. If you plan to save some for later, this casserole freezes quite well—just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer!
Extra Advice
- Cooked Beef Storage: If you have extra browned beef, use it within 2 days or freeze for later use in other recipes.
- Rice Choice: While long-grain white rice works best, you can experiment with brown rice (just adjust your liquid and cooking time).
- Add Veggies: Feel free to sneak in some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition!
Creative Twists
Looking to mix it up? Consider swapping in different cheeses like mozzarella or Pepper Jack for a spice kick! You could even play with different soups for a unique flavor experience—try using a broccoli cheese soup for a fun variation.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does this casserole take to prepare?
A: The total time is about 1 hour, with around 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking time.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: What other meats can I use?
A: Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you want a leaner option!
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a warm comfort food experience, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy every delicious bite!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes until there’s no pink remaining; drain most of the fat, leaving roughly 1 tablespoon for added flavor.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and caramelize the onions over medium-low heat for 10–15 minutes, until they’re golden brown and fragrant.
- Next, add uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the skillet, stirring to blend everything together. Expect a slightly soupy texture.
- Transfer the delicious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven uncovered for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For that golden, toasty finish, broil for 1–2 minutes, but keep a watchful eye!
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
