Savory French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

A delightful aroma wafts through the air, rich and savory, as you imagine the warmth of a cozy kitchen filled with the mouthwatering scent of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Picture perfectly caramelized onions mingling with tender ground beef, all enveloped in creamy rice, topped with gooey cheese that stretches like a cheesy dream. easy cinnamon apples for dessert slow cooker comfort food Each bite is a comforting hug on a chilly evening, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Now, let me take you back to a time when I first attempted this culinary masterpiece. It was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and my kitchen looked more like a tornado had passed through than a cooking space. Armed with an old family recipe and an insatiable craving for something hearty, I dove headfirst into creating this dish. Little did I know that by the end of it, I’d have not only satisfied my hunger but also found a new family favorite. Trust me; this casserole is perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to potluck gatherings where you’ll be the star chef.

Ingredients for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for better flavor without excess grease; about 1 pound should do.
• Sliced Onions: About 2 medium onions will caramelize beautifully to create that classic French onion flavor.
• White Rice: Long-grain white rice works best; it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors nicely.
• Beef Broth: Choose low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels while adding depth to the dish.
• Shredded Cheese: Opt for Swiss or Gruyère cheese; they melt wonderfully and add creaminess.

For seasoning:

• Thyme: Fresh thyme adds earthiness; dried thyme works too if that’s what you have on hand.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors—don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sauté Those Onions

Add sliced onions to the skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. Stir occasionally until they become soft and caramelized—about 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial because those sweet onions are what make this dish shine!

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Once your onions are golden brown, push them aside in the skillet and add ground beef. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until browned—around 5-7 minutes—breaking it up into crumbles as you go.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in uncooked white rice along with beef broth into the mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so the flavors meld together beautifully—about another five minutes should suffice.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour everything into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Top generously with shredded cheese because let’s be real—more cheese means more happiness!

Step 6: Bake Away

Cover your baking dish with foil (to keep all that cheesy goodness inside) and bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last five minutes to allow the top to get bubbly and golden brown.

Transfer to plates and serve hot! Garnish if desired (I usually don’t because I’m too eager); enjoy every comforting bite of this casserole masterpiece that warms both your belly and soul!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. While that’s happening, cook the rice in a separate pot. Combine everything with caramelized onions and cheese for the ultimate flavor explosion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. Try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a fun twist on flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheesy goodness stays intact.

A friend once told me that this casserole is so good, it could make even a salad lover reconsider their life choices! It’s always a hit at dinner gatherings, sparking joy—and seconds!

FAQs :

What are the main ingredients in French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

The main ingredients for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole include ground beef, rice, French onion soup, and cheese. You will also need onions, garlic, and some seasonings to enhance the flavors. This recipe combines these simple ingredients to create a hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. hearty beef stew recipe The use of French onion soup adds a rich flavor base that makes this casserole stand out.

How long does it take to prepare French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Preparation time for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole typically takes about 15 minutes. Cooking time usually ranges from 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your oven’s temperature and the size of your dish. Overall, you can expect the entire process to take around an hour, making it a convenient option for weeknight meals. This quick preparation allows you to serve a delicious homemade casserole without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Can I customize the recipe for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Absolutely! You can customize French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute ground beef with lentils or other plant-based proteins. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or use brown rice instead of white for a healthier alternative. The flexibility of this casserole makes it easy to adapt to your taste preferences. For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.

How do I store leftovers of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

To store leftovers of French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, allow it to cool first before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions until warm. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the casserole; it can last up to three months in the freezer when properly sealed.

Conclusion for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole :

In summary, French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a deliciously satisfying meal that combines simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, and French onion soup. Preparation is quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can easily customize this dish according to your preferences by adding vegetables or changing proteins. With proper storage methods, leftovers can be enjoyed later without compromising flavor. This casserole not only offers convenience but also delivers comfort food that everyone will love! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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• Author: Grace
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish, blending sweet caramelized onions, savory ground beef, and creamy rice, all topped with melty cheese. This easy-to-make casserole warms both the heart and belly, making it perfect for family dinners or potluck events. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a satisfying meal that delights everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté sliced onions in olive oil until caramelized (10-15 minutes).
3. Push onions to one side, add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and thyme; cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in uncooked rice and beef broth; bring to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish; top with shredded cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil for the last 5 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 415
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 78mg