French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Introduction:

This hearty, comforting casserole blends savory ground beef, tender rice, and the rich, delicious flavors of French onion soup. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners!

Description:

A warm and satisfying casserole dish featuring ground beef, rice, and the deep, savory flavor of French onion soup. It’s topped with gooey cheddar cheese and finished with a touch of sour cream for a creamy, irresistible texture.

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
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
   Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
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 blended.
   Fold in the cooked beef and onions, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake:
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Variation:

1. Swap the Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. This change keeps the dish flavorful while reducing fat content.
2. Add Vegetables: Mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to incorporate more nutrients. They’ll complement the French onion flavor beautifully.
3. Cheese Variety: Use Swiss, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for a richer, more sophisticated flavor. Gruyère especially enhances the French onion theme.

Cooking Notes:

1. Rice Options: Both white and brown rice work well, but for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, opt for brown rice. Ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing to avoid a mushy texture.
2. Onion Caramelization: Sauté the onions until slightly caramelized for a deeper, sweeter flavor that elevates the dish.
3. Soup Consistency: If you prefer a thicker casserole, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the French onion soup before mixing. This ensures a creamier texture without making the casserole runny.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Side Salad: Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance its richness. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad works wonderfully.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside lightly steamed broccoli or green beans for added color and a healthy touch. A squeeze of lemon over the veggies enhances their freshness.
3. Bread Basket: Offer a basket of warm, crusty bread or garlic toast for soaking up the creamy casserole sauce. This is especially satisfying for those who enjoy hearty, comforting meals.

Tips:

1. Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.
2. Freezer-Friendly: This dish freezes exceptionally well. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Customizable Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for an extra layer of flavor. This tip is especially helpful if you enjoy bold, savory notes in your meals.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Sodium: 580mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
   Yes! Use a gluten-free French onion soup and double-check the labels on other ingredients like sour cream and cheese to ensure they’re gluten-free.
2. What kind of rice works best?
   Any cooked rice will do, but white rice creates a neutral base, while brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Pre-cooked rice from the store can save time, too.
3. Can I substitute the cheese?
   Absolutely! Gruyère or mozzarella can be used in place of cheddar for a different flavor profile. Gruyère, in particular, enhances the French onion flavor.
4. Can this dish be frozen?
   Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion:

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, creamy, and savory dish that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and rich flavors make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. Pair it with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies, and you’ve got a wholesome, satisfying dinner everyone will love!

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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• Author: I love recipes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A warm and satisfying casserole dish featuring ground beef, rice, and the deep, savory flavor of French onion soup. It’s topped with gooey cheddar cheese and finished with a touch of sour cream for a creamy, irresistible texture.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
   Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
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 blended.
   Fold in the cooked beef and onions, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake:
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

• This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
• Swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
• Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef for extra depth of flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food, casserole recipe