If you have a soft spot for comfort food that warms the soul and delights the taste buds, then this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is about to become one of your absolute favorites. Imagine tender caramelized onions mingling with savory ground beef, perfectly cooked rice soaking up rich beef broth and aromatic spices, all topped off with melty Swiss cheese and crispy fried onions for that unbeatable crunch. This casserole is a cozy, hearty dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners where you want something wholesome with a touch of elegant flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this flavorful casserole. Each component plays a crucial role—from the rich beef broth enhancing the depth of flavor to the crispy French fried onions adding texture. The list is straightforward but packs a punch in delivering that classic French onion essence combined with hearty ground beef and fluffy rice.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that brings savory richness and satisfying texture.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Provides light, fluffy texture that absorbs all the delicious flavors as it cooks.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds savory depth, ensuring the rice cooks flavorful and moist.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced: Caramelized to sweet, golden perfection, giving that signature French onion taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions to a perfect caramelized finish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle hint of garlicky warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts onion flavor intensity in every bite.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the beef and onions beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring balance and enhance natural flavors.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Melted on top for creamy, nutty richness that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup French fried onions (for topping): Gives an irresistible crispy texture and traditional finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens and adds a fresh herbal touch to the final presentation.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your casserole bakes evenly and doesn’t stick—setting the stage for perfect results.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté patiently for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch them transform into golden brown, deeply caramelized layers that infuse the dish with that unmistakable French onion sweetness.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, stir in the ground beef to the skillet with your beautifully caramelized onions. Break the meat apart with a spatula and cook it thoroughly for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the flavor rich but not greasy.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the cooked beef and onions. Stir well to combine all those warm, aromatic seasonings that make the French onion flavor so captivating.
Step 5: Mix in Rice and Broth
In a large mixing bowl, combine your seasoned beef and onion mixture with the uncooked long-grain rice and beef broth. Give it a thorough mix, ensuring every grain is coated in those incredible flavors waiting to unfold in the oven.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer this luscious mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading everything evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, which will trap moisture and help the rice cook perfectly tender alongside the beef and onions.
Step 7: Bake and Add Cheese
Bake the casserole for 30 minutes covered. Then, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top. Return it to the oven uncovered and bake another 10 to 15 minutes, letting the cheese melt into a golden bubbly blanket.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to cheesy perfection, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to firm up. Top with crispy French fried onions and sprinkle fresh parsley before serving for a gorgeous finishing touch and wonderful crunch.
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley not only brightens the rich flavors but also offers a lovely pop of color that makes the casserole irresistible. Don’t skip the French fried onions on top—their crunch contrasts beautifully with the creamy baked cheese and tender beef-rice filling.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands on its own beautifully, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables adds a refreshing balance. Roasted carrots or a simple side of sautéed green beans complement the savory, cheesy main dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve in the baking dish straight out of the oven, letting everyone scoop their own portions. Alternatively, you can plate individual servings topped with a little extra cheese or a small sprig of parsley for a touch of elegance when entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days—making it perfect for next-day meals or quick lunches.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Simply assemble in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. Cover with foil initially to prevent drying out, then uncover for the last few minutes to refresh the crispy topping.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but keep in mind it takes longer to cook. You might need to adjust the liquid and bake time accordingly for the best results.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute or use hearty mushrooms sautéed with the onions for a vegetarian twist that still delivers great flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it following the same steps—just add a little extra time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What cheese can I use instead of Swiss?
Mozzarella, Gruyere, or even cheddar can work well if you prefer. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile, but all melt beautifully to create that comforting cheesy topping.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling the ingredients and using a larger baking dish will work fine. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may need to bake a bit longer to cook through evenly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s bursting with rich, savory flavors and wonderful textures, give this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe a try. It’s a heartwarming crowd-pleaser that brings the best of a classic French onion soup into a hearty, easy-to-make casserole. Trust me, once you serve this to your friends or family, it will be asked for again and again. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring caramelized onions, seasoned ground beef, and tender rice baked together and topped with melted Swiss cheese and crispy French fried onions. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines rich flavors and textures in a simple one-dish meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup French fried onions (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
- Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become caramelized and golden brown, which develops a deep, sweet flavor essential to the dish.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Break it apart using a spatula and cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid greasiness.
- Season the Beef and Onion Mixture: Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed and set the skillet aside.
- Combine Rice and Broth: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with uncooked rice and beef broth. Mix thoroughly so that the rice is coated with the flavorful juices and seasoning.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture while baking.
- Bake: Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and absorb the flavors.
- Add Swiss Cheese: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set before serving. Top with French fried onions for a crispy texture and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- You can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère for a nuttier flavor.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice but increase the baking time to about 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness.
- For a lower-sodium version, use low-sodium beef broth and reduce added salt.
- Make sure to drain excess fat after browning the ground beef to keep the casserole from being too greasy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
