French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
There’s something inherently comforting about a dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup and hearty ground beef. This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or family gatherings, combining the satisfying crunch of a golden-brown topping with a creamy, flavorful base. It’s a recipe I often return to when I crave a warm hug in a bowl, and I think you’ll find it just as delightful.
Why you’ll love this dish
This casserole is not just another meal; it’s a quick way to whip up a satisfying feast without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s why you’ll want to add this recipe to your rotation:
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple, straightforward ingredients keeps costs low while still delivering fantastic flavor.
- Kid-Approved: With its cheesy, meaty goodness, children are often big fans of this dish—perfect for picky eaters!
- One-Pan Wonder: Who doesn’t love fewer dishes to wash? This recipe comes together in one skillet before going into the oven.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this casserole is versatile enough to fit any occasion.
"Absolutely delicious! The creamy mixture combined with the French onion flavor makes this dish a family favorite!"
The cooking process explained
Making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is straightforward and fun. You’ll start by browning the ground beef, followed by adding some comforting ingredients before letting the oven work its magic. This dish requires minimal prep, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Here’s a brief overview of the steps:
- Brown the ground beef.
- Sauté the onions.
- Combine everything in a skillet.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish and bake.
With just a few steps and minimal cleanup, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to success. For this recipe, you’ll require:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for something lighter.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it’s soft and translucent.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked rice, and garlic powder. Mix everything until well combined.
- Transfer to casserole dish: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Cover and bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the dish is heated through.
- Serve & enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Dive in and enjoy!
How to plate and pair
While the casserole is fantastic on its own, you can elevate your meal by serving it with sides like a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a burst of color and nutrition. For a more filling option, add some crusty bread to soak up the flavors. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of freshness.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! To keep your casserole fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly and it will last up to 3 months. Just remember to bake it frozen, adding about 20 minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheat: For reheating, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Make sure you’re practicing safe food handling techniques to keep everything fresh!
Helpful cooking tips
To enhance your casserole experience, consider these tips:
- Browning Matters: Make sure to brown the beef well–this adds depth to the overall flavor.
- Rice Quality: Use long-grain rice for the best texture, as it cooks up fluffy and light.
- Experiment with Cheese: Adding a layer of shredded cheese on top before the final bake can create a delightful, gooey crust.
Creative twists
Amp up this casserole with creative variations:
- Add Veggies: Stir in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and taste.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick if you enjoy some heat.
- Change the Soup: Try swapping the cream of mushroom soup with a cream of chicken or cheese soup for different flavors.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this casserole?
Prep time is approximately 15-20 minutes, followed by about an hour of baking time.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid and cooking time since brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
How many servings does this casserole yield?
This recipe usually serves about 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Incorporating this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole into your meal planning will not only satisfy the entire family but also make your weeknights a little bit easier! Enjoy!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it's fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it’s soft and translucent.
- Stir in the French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked rice, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the dish is heated through.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
