If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty, and downright delicious dish to throw together any night of the week, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with the satisfying heartiness of ground beef and fluffy rice, baked until bubbly and topped with melty cheese. This casserole brings layers of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen, making it a perfect, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of pantry staples and fresh basics is all it takes to whip up this tasty casserole. Each ingredient plays a special role in building the dish’s unforgettable aroma, texture, and depth of flavor.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The rich, meaty foundation providing hearty protein and satisfying texture.
- Long-grain white rice (1 cup): Adds fluffiness and balances the savory elements perfectly.
- French onion soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): The star ingredient, infusing the whole dish with deep, caramelized onion flavor.
- Diced tomatoes, undrained (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds acidity and moisture, brightening the casserole.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For browning the beef and bringing all the flavors together smoothly.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): A simple way to add aromatic warmth.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon, optional): For a subtle herbal hint that complements the onion soup wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing every component.
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella): The melty, gooey finishing touch that takes this dish over the top.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it will be perfectly hot and ready by the time you have your casserole ready to bake, allowing for even cooking and a lovely melding of flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to get it nice and hot. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. As it browns, it releases amazing aromas and creates a hearty base. After 5 to 7 minutes, once it’s browned and cooked through, drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Then stir in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper for a punch of flavor that’s simple but impactful. Set it aside when done.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
While the beef cooks, prepare your rice according to the package instructions. Taking the time to cook the rice just right ensures it will be fluffy and separate, providing a wonderful texture contrast to the rich beef and soupy base.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, fluffy rice, the full can of French onion soup, and the undrained diced tomatoes. Mixing them well distributes those wonderful onion soup flavors and juicy tomato bits so every bite is balanced and delicious.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour your mixture in and spread it evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil to lock in moisture, then bake for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to marry beautifully and ensures the casserole is heated through perfectly.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Remove the foil and sprinkle your shredded cheese of choice over the top in the last 5 minutes of baking. Return the dish to the oven uncovered so the cheese melts into a bubbling, golden crust that adds an irresistible final layer of richness and texture.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking—it makes serving easier and lets the flavors settle. Then scoop generous portions onto your plate, ready to delight everyone at your table with warm, cheesy slices.
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich casserole. If you love a little extra zing, a light drizzle of sour cream or a dusting of paprika can elevate each bite beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole tastes fantastic alongside simple green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even some warm crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. These sides keep the meal balanced and vibrant without overshadowing the main star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style meal, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves. To make it feel special for guests, plate individual portions with a crisp green salad on the side and a lemon wedge to brighten the flavors. Alternatively, turn it into hearty casserole muffins by baking in a muffin tin for fun single servings perfect for lunchboxes or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This casserole keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a perfect choice for quick weekday meals or lunches the next day without losing any flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. When you want comfort food in a snap, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results, then reheat.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for a few minutes or warm them in a preheated 350°F oven until heated through. Adding a little extra shredded cheese on top during reheating can revive that melty goodness if it’s lost some of its initial charm.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and more chewiness. Just be sure to cook it fully before combining with the other ingredients since it takes longer to cook than white rice.
Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or hearty mushrooms for a similar texture. Using vegetable broth instead of French onion soup that contains beef stock will keep it fully vegetarian.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, simply bake it covered and adjust baking time by a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar and mozzarella are excellent choices because they melt wonderfully and add a creamy layer. Feel free to get creative with Swiss, Gruyere, or a blend depending on what flavors you like.
Is it possible to add vegetables into the casserole?
For sure! Adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when cooking the beef can boost nutrition and flavor. Just sauté the veggies first to prevent excess moisture from affecting the bake.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a special treat but comes together easily with everyday ingredients. Its layers of cozy, savory flavor make it a perfect family dinner, and best of all, it’s so versatile you can tweak it to your liking. Give it a try soon and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining savory ground beef, flavorful French onion soup, tender rice, and diced tomatoes. Topped with melted cheese, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks. Brown it for 5-7 minutes, then drain off any excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, dried thyme if using, salt, and pepper. Set aside once cooked.
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the long-grain white rice according to the package instructions until tender, then set it aside.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cooked rice, French onion soup, and the undrained diced tomatoes. Mix everything thoroughly to evenly distribute flavors.
- Bake the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then transfer the mixture into it. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through.
- Add the Cheese (Optional): In the last 5 minutes of baking, uncover the casserole and sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top. Return to the oven uncovered until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper along with the garlic powder.
- Feel free to use brown rice; adjust cooking times accordingly.
- The thyme is optional but adds a nice herbaceous note to the dish.
- To make it dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
