French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Bring the comfort of a cozy diner meal right to your kitchen with this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. It’s a one-dish wonder featuring seasoned ground beef, fluffy white rice, creamy French onion sauce, and bubbling cheese. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea, a crowd-pleasing potluck favorite, or just a simple yet hearty food idea, this dish checks all the boxes. Perfect for a busy night, yet rich and indulgent enough for special occasions—your new go-to in the world of easy recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole combines simple ingredients that come together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The creamy French onion soup and melted cheese create a deliciously comforting dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings or potlucks, this casserole is sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef evenly while providing enough space to stir in seasonings.
• Mixing Bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Baking Dish: The right size ensures even cooking and makes serving easy.

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Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 cups cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Season the Beef

• Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Mix All Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beef mixture with cooked rice, condensed soup, and sour cream. Mix until fully blended.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
• Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. 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 not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the meal, making it even more enjoyable.

With a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese drizzled with Caesar dressing for a creamy contrast.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover casserole sauce.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a fresh flavor and vibrant color alongside the casserole.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a delicious balance to the savory dish.

With Toppings

• Chopped Green Onions: Adding green onions enhances the flavor with a mild onion kick.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that complements the casserole.

How to Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

To make your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole an absolute delight, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opting for lean ground beef reduces excess fat while still keeping the dish flavorful.
• Cook Rice Properly: Ensure your rice is cooked just right—fluffy but not mushy—to maintain texture in the casserole.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for added flavor complexity.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporating veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance nutrition and flavors.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste before baking; adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your casserole can enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing mix of leafy greens dressed lightly keeps the meal balanced.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and a slightly nutty flavor.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and complement the casserole’s richness.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the casserole’s creaminess.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries: These offer a healthy alternative to traditional fries while adding fun to your plate.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness that refreshes your palate between bites of casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can be simple, but certain mistakes can hinder your dish’s success.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the ground beef properly can leave it with a bland flavor. Always ensure it’s cooked until browned to enhance its taste.
• Using Uncooked Rice: Adding uncooked rice to the casserole will result in crunchy and undercooked grains. Make sure to use pre-cooked rice for the best texture.
• Overloading on Cheese: While cheese adds creaminess, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for balanced flavor.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Relying solely on soup for flavor might lead to a lack of seasoning. Taste your mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed before baking.
• Not Greasing the Baking Dish: A greased dish prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Always grease your baking dish thoroughly to avoid hassle during serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil for up to 2–3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.

What ingredients are in French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

The main ingredients include ground beef, cooked rice, condensed French onion soup, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, butter, onion powder, garlic powder, and optional parsley.

Can I customize my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition or swap cheeses based on your preference.

How long does it take to make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

The total preparation time is around 40 minutes, which includes both prep and cooking time.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance; just store it in the refrigerator before baking.

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings where you want something hearty yet easy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses—your family will love this delicious dish!

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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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Bring the warmth of a cozy diner right into your home with this comforting French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. This delightful one-dish meal features seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, creamy French onion sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd, this casserole is a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy it as a hearty main course paired with fresh salads or steamed vegetables, ensuring a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 cups cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to season the beef.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef with rice, condensed soup, and sour cream until well mixed.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

• Author: Emmeline
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 712mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied taste profiles.