French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – Page 2

How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until they become soft and golden brown. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.
Once caramelized, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain any excess fat and season the beef with garlic powder, dried thyme, and black pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, ground beef, caramelized onions, French onion soup, and beef broth. Mix until everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If desired, sprinkle crispy fried onions on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for added crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions, seasoned beef, and melted cheese creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
Comforting and Filling: With its hearty ingredients and satisfying texture, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love this dish, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.
Easy to Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken, or add mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra veggies.

Tips for the Best French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Choose the Right Cheese: Swiss and Gruyère cheeses melt beautifully and complement the French onion flavor, but you can use mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Don’t rush the process of caramelizing the onions—it’s the key to building deep, sweet, and savory flavors.
Use Leftover Rice: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked rice. Cold rice works best as it holds up well during baking.
Add a Crunchy Topping: The crispy fried onions add a delightful crunch, but you can also top the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a similar effect.
Freeze for Later: Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed when ready to serve.

Conclusion

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect recipe when you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish. With its savory layers of ground beef, rice, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese, this casserole is a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Serve it on a chilly evening or bring it to your next gathering for a dish that everyone will love. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors in every bite!

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