Why You’ll Love This Recipe
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a rich and savory one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy nights or family dinners. Combining seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and the deep flavor of French onion soup, this comforting casserole is hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful. It’s easy to prep and even easier to love.
ingredients
Ground beef
Cooked white rice
French onion soup (canned or homemade)
Cream of mushroom soup
Worcestershire sauce
Shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Butter (for greasing and optional topping)
Fried onions (optional for topping)
Salt and pepper
directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, rice, French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the shredded cheese.
Mix until well combined and spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Top with the remaining cheese and a sprinkle of fried onions if using.
Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Serves 6-8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Cooling time: 5 minutes
Total time: 50-60 minutes
Variations
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
Use Gruyère or provolone for a richer cheese layer.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked rice?
No, use fully cooked rice to ensure even texture and cooking.
What if I don’t have French onion soup?
Substitute with beef broth and sautéed onions for a similar flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well before or after baking.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, add bell peppers, peas, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrients.
Conclusion
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole brings the deep, comforting flavors of French onion soup into a satisfying, cheesy bake. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s an easy and filling meal your family will request again and again.
Print
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes (including caramelizing onions)
- Total Time: 55 minutes (+optional chill)
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French‑American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Savory French onion–inspired casserole with ground beef, tender rice, caramelized onions, and melty cheese—comforting and hearty.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cooked long‑grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring often, until caramelized and golden, about 15–20 minutes.
- Add ground beef to skillet; cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper; cook 1–2 minutes.
- Mix in French onion soup and beef broth; simmer briefly until combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in cooked rice until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving to allow casserole to set.
Notes
- Use Gruyère for a richer, slightly nutty flavor.
- Add mushrooms or green peas for extra veggies.
- Make ahead: assemble and refrigerate (covered) up to 24 hours; add 5–10 min to bake time.
- Leftovers store covered in fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in oven or microwave.
- Top with fresh parsley before serving for color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
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