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
Scale
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
