French onion ground beef and rice casserole: 7 steps to joy

Name: French onion ground beef and rice casserole: 7 steps to joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion, sliced; 1 can cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup French onion dip; 1 cup shredded cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something about casseroles that just screams comfort, don’t you think? They remind me of cozy family dinners and warm kitchens filled with delicious aromas. One of my all-time favorites has to be this French onion ground beef and rice casserole. It’s a delightful mix of savory beef, creamy textures, and that unmistakable French onion flavor that just wraps around you like a warm hug. I remember making this dish on chilly Sunday evenings when everyone would gather around the table, eagerly waiting for that cheesy, bubbling goodness to come out of the oven. Trust me, every bite takes me back to those heartwarming moments. This casserole is not only easy to whip up but also a sure crowd-pleaser, perfect for those busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying!

french onion ground beef and rice casserole - detail 1

Ingredients

You’ll want to gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to make your French onion ground beef and rice casserole. Trust me, each one plays a vital role in creating that unforgettable comfort dish!

1 lb ground beef
1 cup rice (uncooked)
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, sliced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup French onion dip
1 cup shredded cheese (I love using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavors! It really makes a difference in the final dish. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Alright, let’s get down to the fun part—making this French onion ground beef and rice casserole! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to go in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your casserole cook evenly and get that beautiful golden top we all love. So don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Next, grab a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add in your ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula while it cooks so it gets that perfect texture. You want it cooked evenly without any pink bits left—nobody wants that in their casserole!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Once your beef is browned, toss in the sliced onions. Cook them with the beef until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial because it develops amazing flavors that will make your casserole pop. Just imagine that sweet onion aroma filling your kitchen—yum!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time for the fun mix! Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and French onion dip. Make sure everything is well combined; you want that creamy goodness to coat all the rice and beef. It should look rich and inviting—trust me, it gets even better from here!

Step 5: Seasoning

Don’t forget to season your mixture with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust according to your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even sprinkle in some garlic powder or herbs for an extra kick!

Step 6: Transfer and Top

Now, transfer your delicious mixture into a casserole dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely. Then, sprinkle that shredded cheese all over the top. I like to get it nice and cheesy, but feel free to use a little less if you’re watching your cheese intake!

Step 7: Bake

Pop your casserole in the preheated oven and bake it for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and your kitchen smells heavenly! Once it’s out, give it a few minutes to cool down before serving. You’ll want everyone to dive into that cheesy goodness without burning their mouths—trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oh, let me tell you why this French onion ground beef and rice casserole is a must-try! First off, it’s *hearty*—just one serving and you’ll feel completely satisfied. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, perfect for those chilly evenings or busy weeknights.

Then there’s the *flavor*! The savory notes from the beef combined with the creamy, tangy French onion dip create a deliciously rich taste that you just can’t resist. Seriously, every bite is a party for your taste buds!

And let’s not forget how *easy* it is to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have this delightful casserole in the oven in no time. It’s all about convenience without sacrificing flavor.

Lastly, it’s a *crowd-pleaser*! Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always gets rave reviews. Everyone loves that melty cheese on top and the comforting blend of flavors. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your French onion ground beef and rice casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips for success that I swear by:

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ground beef and quality broth make a world of difference. The flavors will really shine through in your casserole!
Don’t skip the sauté: Sautéing the onions with the beef is crucial for developing that deep, savory flavor. Take your time with this step—it’s totally worth it!
Adjust seasoning: Taste your mixture before it goes into the oven. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even some garlic powder for an extra kick!
Check your rice: Since we’re using uncooked rice, it’s important to ensure you’ve added enough liquid. The beef broth and cream of mushroom soup do a great job, but keep an eye on it while it bakes to make sure the rice cooks perfectly.
Baking times may vary: Every oven is different, so check your casserole a few minutes before the indicated time. You want that cheese melted and bubbly but not overcooked. The aroma will guide you!
Let it rest: After you pull your casserole from the oven, give it a few minutes to settle. This helps everything firm up a bit, making it easier to serve without it falling apart.
Get creative! Don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies or spices. Peas, carrots, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take this dish to the next level!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious, unforgettable casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to tweak this French onion ground beef and rice casserole! Here are some ideas that I absolutely love:

Add Veggies: Sneak in some frozen peas, diced carrots, or even chopped bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrition. Just toss them in with the beef and onions to get them nice and tender!
Spice it Up: Love a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the mix. It’ll give your casserole a delightful kick that’ll wake up your taste buds!
Cheese Lovers Unite: Switch up the cheese! Try a blend of pepper jack for some spice, or go for a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. You could even throw in some crumbled blue cheese for a gourmet twist!
Herbs and Seasoning: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a refreshing flavor. Just chop them up and sprinkle them in before baking. You can also experiment with seasoning blends like Italian or Cajun for a different vibe!
Swap the Rice: Want to change the texture? Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly!
Make it a Bake: Consider adding a layer of crispy fried onions on top for that classic French onion soup crunch. Just sprinkle them on in the last few minutes of baking!

With these variations, the possibilities are endless! You can personalize this casserole to fit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Have fun experimenting and enjoy the delicious results!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about what to do with those tasty leftovers! First off, make sure to let your French onion ground beef and rice casserole cool down completely before storing it. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and tasty for up to 3 days in the fridge. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every last bite!

When it comes to reheating, I’ve got a couple of options for you. If you want the best quality, I recommend reheating in the oven. Just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place your casserole in a baking dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s warmed through. You’ll get that lovely melted cheese back to its bubbling glory!

If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine too! Just pop a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, and heat it in short bursts of about 1-2 minutes, checking in between until it’s nice and hot. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with a rubbery texture!

Whether you’re warming it up in the oven or microwave, I promise your leftovers will still be delicious and comforting—just like when you first made it! Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delicious French onion ground beef and rice casserole! Here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

Keep in mind, these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of cheese or the brand of soup. If you’re looking to lighten things up, consider using low-fat cheese or cream of mushroom soup. Whatever you choose, I promise this casserole will still be a comforting and satisfying meal that you’ll love!

Share Your Experience

I’d absolutely love to hear from you! After trying my French onion ground beef and rice casserole, please drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out for you. Did you tweak the recipe to make it your own? Maybe you added some extra veggies or went wild with the cheese? Whatever your experience, I want to hear all about it!

If you enjoyed it, don’t forget to rate the recipe! Your feedback not only makes my day but helps fellow food lovers find this cozy dish. Sharing your variations and tips can inspire others to get creative in their kitchens too. So, let’s connect over our love for this casserole and keep the deliciousness going!

For more information on the nutritional benefits of onions, check out Healthline.

To learn more about the importance of using fresh ingredients in cooking, visit Eat Right.