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 family dinners or meal prep, this dish combines seasoned ground beef with tender rice and a crispy topping. It’s an easy recipe that delivers warmth and satisfaction, making it ideal for cozy nights or busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of French onion soup mix and beef broth creates a savory base that enhances every bite.
- One-Pan Meal: Simplify your cooking with this all-in-one casserole, reducing cleanup time after dinner.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep work and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite cheeses or vegetables to suit your family’s tastes.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure everything runs smoothly as you cook.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly, which adds depth to the flavor.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Provides ample space for layering ingredients and allows for even cooking of the casserole.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for combining all the ingredients effectively before transferring them to the baking dish.
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
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 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) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned.
2. Drain excess grease.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Soup Mix
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Mix together the uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until well combined.
Step 4: Add Ground Beef and Sour Cream
Stir in:
1. The cooked ground beef.
2. The sour cream.
3. Mix everything together thoroughly before transferring to the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly in the dish:
1. Top with shredded cheese.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole with foil:
1. Bake for 40 minutes.
Step 7: Bake Uncovered
Remove the foil:
1. Bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Add French-Fried Onions
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.
Enjoy your delicious French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting meal on a busy night, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a warm, inviting presentation. This is perfect for casual dinners with family.
Individual Portions
- Scoop out individual servings into bowls for easier handling. This makes serving simpler and allows each person to enjoy their own portion.
Garnished Plates
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top of each serving to give a pop of color and freshness. It enhances the visual appeal and adds flavor.
Accompanied by Salad
- Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad. A simple mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. This is great for soaking up any extra juices from the dish.
Side of Vegetables
- Offer steamed or roasted vegetables alongside. Options like green beans or broccoli add nutritional balance to your meal.
How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Creating the perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole takes just a few simple steps. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use quality beef: Choosing high-quality ground beef enhances flavor and texture in your casserole.
- Cook rice properly: Make sure the rice is evenly mixed with broth and not overcooked to avoid mushiness.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before baking; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or garlic powder based on your preference.
- Layer ingredients: For even cooking, layer the beef mixture and cheese properly to ensure all flavors meld together.
- Avoid overbaking: Keep an eye on your casserole while baking to prevent it from drying out; it should be bubbly but moist.
- Rest before serving: Letting the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up for easier slicing and serving.
Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To round out your meal, consider serving some side dishes that pair well with this casserole. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread – A classic choice that complements the cheesy richness of the casserole.
- Mixed Green Salad – A refreshing salad adds crunch and balances the hearty flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly seasoned broccoli provides a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.
- Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots bring a lovely contrast in flavor while being visually appealing.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn offers sweetness that pairs nicely with savory dishes.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that enhances each bite of the casserole.
- Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges add an extra level of comfort food satisfaction.
- Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans create a delicious contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to less flavor. Make sure to cook it until it’s well browned for a richer taste.
- Using the wrong rice type: Substituting long-grain rice with short-grain can alter the texture of the casserole. Stick to long-grain white rice for best results.
- Overcooking the cheese: Leaving the casserole in the oven too long can cause the cheese to harden. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it stays melty.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: If you skip tasting and adjusting seasoning, your casserole may end up bland. Always taste and tweak salt and pepper as needed.
- Not letting it rest before serving: Cutting into the casserole immediately can make it fall apart. Allow it to cool for a few minutes so it sets better.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely; heat in short bursts, checking every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.
What is French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish made with seasoned ground beef, rice, beef broth, cheese, and topped with crispy onions.
How do I customize this casserole recipe?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap cheeses for different flavors. Experiment with your favorite ingredients!
Can I use leftover cooked rice?
Yes, you can use leftover cooked rice! Just adjust the liquid quantity since uncooked rice absorbs moisture during baking.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole makes a great meal prep option as it reheats well and keeps its flavor.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Don’t hesitate—try this cozy dish today!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting warmth of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, a delicious blend of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and rich cheese. This one-pan dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, combining savory flavors with a crispy topping for an unforgettable meal. Easy to prepare and customize, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With minimal effort, you can create a satisfying casserole that will warm hearts and homes.
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
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess grease.
- In a mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth; mix well.
- Stir in the cooked beef and sour cream until fully combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes; then remove foil 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
