Print

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://yumwithmia.com/french-onion-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole-recipe/