French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Picture this: savory ground beef mingles with tender rice, all enveloped in a rich onion sauce that dances on your taste buds. homemade honey BBQ sauce The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have you drooling before you even take a bite.
Now, imagine a chilly evening, cozying up with family or friends, and this casserole makes its grand entrance. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, guaranteed to make everyone feel right at home. The anticipation of diving into this cheesy, flavorful goodness is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavor profile combines savory beef and sweet caramelized onions for a comforting experience.
- With its golden, bubbly cheese topping, it’s visually appealing and sure to impress at any gathering.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with whatever ingredients you have on hand!
Ingredients for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while maintaining flavor; aim for 80/20 fat content.
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Long-Grain White Rice: This type of rice cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well; no need to rinse before cooking.
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French Onion Soup Mix: A key ingredient that adds depth and richness; choose low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
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Shredded Cheese: Opt for a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for that gooey, cheesy topping everyone loves.
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Caramelized Onions: These bring out the natural sweetness; you can either buy pre-made or sauté some fresh onions until golden brown.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your favorite baking dish and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks when it’s time to dig in.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Stir occasionally until browned and crumbly—about 7-10 minutes should do it. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the long-grain white rice, French onion soup mix, caramelized onions, and two cups of water into the skillet. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite gets that fantastic flavor combo.
Step 5: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of your casserole. Go ahead; don’t be shy! The more cheese, the merrier.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and allow an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. hearty chili cheese bake.
Serve hot from the oven with crusty bread or a simple salad on the side for a complete meal. Transfer generous portions onto plates and watch as everyone dives in—just be ready for those “Mmm” sounds!
You Must Know
- This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a dish.
- Loaded with savory flavors, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd.
- Easy to make, this casserole brings warmth to your table while satisfying everyone’s cravings.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet. While that sizzles, sauté onions until they’re golden. Combine everything in a casserole dish, add rice, broth, and seasonings before baking. This sequence ensures even cooking and rich flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken if you’re feeling adventurous. Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. A sprinkle of cheese on top before baking brings a delightful finish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, microwave individual portions or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it stays deliciously moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
- Don’t rush the onion sautéing; caramelization enhances sweetness.
- Always taste your broth before adding more salt to avoid over-seasoning.
Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about the first time I made this casserole for my friends. Their faces lit up as they took their first bites—priceless memories over a simple dish!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
To prepare French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, you will need ground beef, rice, French onion soup, shredded cheese, onions, garlic, and some spices. This combination creates a hearty dish that’s both comforting and delicious. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking to streamline the process. For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.
How long does it take to cook French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Cooking French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. This includes both preparation and baking time. After browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions, mix all ingredients in a baking dish. Bake it until the rice is tender and fully cooked. Allowing it to rest for a few minutes afterward enhances the flavors.
Can I make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time! Prepare it as instructed but do not bake it right away. Instead, cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What variations can I try with French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
There are many delicious variations you can try with French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. For instance, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. You can also use brown rice instead of white rice for added health benefits. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor profile while keeping the dish fresh.
Conclusion for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting meal that combines savory flavors with satisfying textures. With simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, and French onion soup, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. easy Mexican red rice recipe You can adjust the recipe by adding vegetables or using different meats to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this hearty casserole as a delightful family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish!
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that marries savory ground beef, tender rice, and sweet caramelized onions topped with gooey cheese. This crowd-pleasing casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering rich flavors and simplicity in preparation. In just an hour, you can serve up this wholesome meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 oz French onion soup mix
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion (caramelized)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until crumbly (about 7-10 minutes), draining excess fat.
- Stir in rice, French onion soup mix, caramelized onions, and water; bring to a gentle boil while stirring.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheeses generously on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
