French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Hello, casserole lovers! If you’re searching for a hearty and satisfying dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, look no further than this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. With tender rice, flavorful ground beef, and the richness of French onion soup, this recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and packed with flavor! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe.

Introduction

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, and this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is no exception. Combining simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, and savory soups, this dish delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or as a meal-prep option. With minimal prep time and just one baking dish, you’ll have a mouthwatering dinner ready to impress your family and guests.

The combination of beef consommé, French onion soup, and butter creates a rich and savory profile that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice. And the best part? You can customize this casserole to suit your taste, whether by adding a sprinkle of cheese or a touch of your favorite spices.

Ingredients

To make this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, you’ll need:

1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
½ to 1 teaspoon garlic salt, or to taste
2 cans (10.5 oz each) beef consommé
2 cans (10.5 oz each) French onion soup
180ml (¾ cup) water
2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
170g (¾ cup) butter, sliced (1 ½ sticks)

These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful casserole that’s as filling as it is delicious.

How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this comforting dish:

Preheat and Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and even cooking.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the garlic salt and stir until the beef is fully cooked and crumbled. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooked ground beef on top of the rice.
Add the Liquids: Pour the beef consommé, French onion soup, and water over the rice and beef mixture. Gently stir the ingredients to combine, ensuring the rice is fully submerged.
Add the Butter: Distribute the slices of butter evenly across the top of the mixture. The butter will melt during baking, adding richness and flavor.
Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This step ensures the rice absorbs the liquid and cooks evenly.
Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes. This step allows the top to develop a golden-brown color and enhances the casserole’s texture.
Fluff and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Use a fork to fluff the rice before serving.

This casserole is best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven, and pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Helpful Tips

Choose the Right Rice: Use long-grain white rice for the best texture. Avoid instant or parboiled rice, as they may not absorb the liquid properly.
Customize the Flavors: Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the ground beef for an extra layer of umami flavor.
Cheesy Upgrade: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Vegetable Additions: Enhance the casserole with veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

Cooking Tips

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole turns out perfectly:

Don’t Overmix: When combining the liquids and rice, gently stir to ensure the rice is evenly distributed but avoid overmixing to maintain the casserole’s structure.
Even Butter Distribution: Place the butter slices evenly across the top to ensure the entire casserole is infused with rich flavor.
Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to let the flavors meld and the texture settle.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to complete the meal. For an extra-special presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information

This hearty casserole is both satisfying and packed with essential nutrients:

Calories per Serving: 480
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 950mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Vitamin A: 8%
Vitamin C: 2%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 15%

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

For a quick and creative meal, use the leftovers as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or a base for a hearty rice bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative to beef. Just adjust the seasonings to ensure the dish remains flavorful.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, follow the recipe instructions and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

What can I substitute for French onion soup?
If French onion soup isn’t available, use beef broth and sautéed onions as a replacement.

Related Recipes

If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out these other comforting and easy-to-make dishes:

Conclusion

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines convenience, flavor, and comfort in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out, and let us know how it turned out for you. Enjoy this hearty, savory delight!