Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick: This casserole uses basic ingredients and comes together in no time.
- One-dish comfort food: All your favorite flavors baked into one dish.
- Customizable: You can easily add vegetables or swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-pleaser: This dish is hearty and flavorful, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 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
- ½ cup sour cream (plus an additional ½ cup for the optional topping)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add the onion: Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Mix the casserole base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, ground beef mixture, French onion soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Optional topping: Spread an additional ½ cup of sour cream over the top of the casserole, if desired, for extra creaminess.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans for added nutrition.
- Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese.
- Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Low-carb: Substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice to make it keto-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
2. Can I use instant rice?
Yes, instant rice works well and can save time. Just ensure it’s cooked before adding to the casserole.
3. Is there a substitute for French onion soup?
You can use beef broth with a packet of onion soup mix as an alternative.
4. Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Absolutely. Sprinkle breadcrumbs or French-fried onions on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free French onion soup and ensure other ingredients like sour cream and cheese are gluten-free.
6. What side dishes go well with this casserole?
Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones. Adjust baking time as needed.
8. What kind of rice works best?
Both white and brown rice work great. Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
9. Can I add more cheese?
Of course! Feel free to increase the cheese or even layer some on top before baking.
10. How do I know when it’s done baking?
The casserole should be hot and bubbly, with melted cheese and slightly golden edges.
Conclusion
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy comfort food at its finest!
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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a rich, comforting dish that combines ground beef, creamy rice, and the savory depth of French onion soup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy one-pan recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
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
- ½ cup sour cream (plus an additional ½ cup for optional topping)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, ground beef mixture, French onion soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Optional: Spread ½ cup sour cream on top for extra creaminess.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or French-fried onions before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American