French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—savory ground beef, tender rice, and the rich flavor of French onion soup combined in a hearty, satisfying dish. Simple to make and perfect for a family dinner, it’s a cozy meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream (plus an additional ½ cup for the optional topping)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ¾ cup crispy fried onions (optional, for topping)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, French onion soup, shredded cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed. Add the cooked beef and sautéed onions to the mixture, stirring to combine.
4. Step 4 (Optional): In a small bowl, mix the additional ½ cup sour cream with ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This will be spread over the casserole later for a creamy topping.
5. Step 5: Spread the casserole mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. If using the creamy topping, spread it evenly on top.
6. Step 6: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
7. Step 7 (Optional): If using crispy fried onions, sprinkle them over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking to keep them crunchy.
8. Step 8: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions, if desired.
9. Step 9: Serve and enjoy with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.
• Use brown rice for a nuttier taste and added fiber.
• Swap cheddar with Swiss or mozzarella cheese for a different cheese profile.
• Make it vegetarian by replacing ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
• Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten the dish.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or gently in the oven until warmed through. The crispy fried onions topping is best added fresh before serving to maintain crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it when ready, adding extra baking time if still cold from the fridge.

Is it possible to freeze the casserole?

This casserole freezes well. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 142 reviews

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and the rich flavors of French onion soup. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and optional crispy fried onions, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Optional Topping and Garnish

• ½ cup sour cream (for topping)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
• ¾ cup crispy fried onions (for topping)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set it aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, French onion soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed. Add the cooked beef and sautéed onions to the mixture, stirring to combine.
4. Optional Creamy Topping: In a small bowl, mix the additional ½ cup sour cream with ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the casserole after assembling.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the casserole mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. If using the creamy topping, ensure it’s evenly layered on top.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
7. Add Fried Onions: If using crispy fried onions, sprinkle them over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking to ensure they stay crunchy.
8. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions, if desired.
9. Serve: Enjoy with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Notes

• The casserole can be made ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
• Use either white or brown rice according to preference; cooking times remain the same since rice is pre-cooked.
• For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat.
• The crispy fried onions add a nice crunch but can be omitted for a softer texture or to reduce sodium.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Keywords: French onion casserole, ground beef casserole, rice casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, baked casserole