French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the best of hearty ground beef, savory French onion flavors, and tender rice together, then the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is your new go-to meal. This casserole is the perfect blend of rich French onion soup mix, creamy sour cream, and melty cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection and topped with irresistible crispy French-fried onions. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat, delivering cozy, homey vibes that feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role—whether it’s the spiced ground beef for heartiness, the rice for comfort, or the French onion soup mix bringing that signature savory depth.

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides a juicy, protein-packed base with rich flavor.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked): Absorbs all those delicious juices, giving the casserole a tender bite.
• 1 packet French onion soup mix: Adds the iconic savory, caramelized onion taste that makes this dish special.
• 2 cups beef broth: Keeps the rice moist and infuses the entire casserole with beefy richness.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang to balance flavors.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
• ½ cup French-fried onions: Gives the dish a crispy, golden crunch at the finish.
• 1 tbsp butter: Enhances the casserole’s richness and helps with cooking the beef.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor with a gentle garlic punch.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to round out and balance the flavors.

How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

First things first, set your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well so that your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out with a perfect crust on the edges.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Place a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s beautifully browned throughout, ensuring you break it up well. Drain off excess grease for a less oily casserole, then season the meat generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to build layers of savory flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Rice and Soup Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the uncooked long-grain rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth until everything is well blended. This mixture is the heart of our casserole, so take a moment to appreciate the aromatic spices and broth marrying with the raw rice.

Step 4: Combine Beef and Creaminess

Add the browned ground beef into the rice mixture along with the sour cream. Stir everything together thoroughly—this will help distribute the creamy tang of the sour cream and the rich beef flavor evenly, ensuring every bite is a delight.

Step 5: Transfer and Top With Cheese

Pour your combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese on top, creating a melty, bubbling blanket that will seal all those delicious flavors inside when baked.

Step 6: Bake Covered, Then Uncover

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. This time lets the rice cook through and the flavors meld beautifully. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to get bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 7: Add the Crunchy French-Fried Onions

Sprinkle the French-fried onions on top, then pop the casserole back into the oven for 5 more minutes so those onions can turn a gorgeous golden brown and add a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior.

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Garnishes

To add a bright touch and fresh layer to the rich casserole, consider garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or chives. These herbs bring a subtle burst of color and gentle herbal notes that balance the deep onion and beef flavors.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands well as a hearty main dish but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Their freshness and crunch provide contrast and elevate the meal without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole to guests, try scooping it into individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for charming, single-serving presentations. You could also top each portion with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of caramelized onion jam for an elegant twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. To avoid sogginess, consider freezing before adding the crispy French-fried onions, then add them fresh after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out. Add fresh French-fried onions or cheese afterward for an extra special touch.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice or another type of rice in this casserole?

Absolutely! Just be aware that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and slightly more liquid, so adjust accordingly to ensure it cooks through and remains tender.

Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The French onion soup mix should be checked to make sure it’s vegetarian-friendly as well.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Check the ingredients of the French onion soup mix and French-fried onions, as they often contain gluten. Look for gluten-free versions or make your own crispy onion topping with gluten-free breadcrumbs or fried onions.

What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Mozzarella or Swiss cheese are classic choices for their melting qualities and mild flavors, but feel free to experiment with cheddar or Gruyère for a stronger, more pronounced cheese flavor.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the crispy onions on top near the end of baking for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm embrace every time you eat it. With its creamy, cheesy, and crunchy layers, it’s a comforting crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough for company. Give this dish a try and you might just find your new favorite comfort food!

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