If you are craving a comforting and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is just what you need. Combining the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and seasoned ground beef with tender rice all baked under a blanket of melted Swiss cheese and a crunchy topping, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare yet impressive in flavor and texture, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you want to impress without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential to building the deep, luscious flavors and satisfying textures in this casserole. Each one plays a special role, from the richness of the ground beef to the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions and the crisp topping that adds a delightful finish.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a savory base.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Absorbs the flavorful beef broth for a soft, fluffy texture.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds richness and moisture to cook the rice perfectly.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced: When caramelized, it brings a sweet, deep flavor that defines French onion dishes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing onions to golden perfection.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle but essential depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor throughout.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a hint of earthiness and warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and brightens the overall flavor.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: Melts creamy and adds a nutty richness.
- ½ cup French fried onions (for topping): Provides irresistible crunch and a classic French onion casserole finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your casserole will bake evenly, developing that golden finish perfectly.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the thinly sliced onions and patiently sauté for 10 to 12 minutes. Watch as they turn from sharp and pungent to sweet, soft, and golden brown—this transformation is what unlocks the classic French onion flavor that makes this dish so special.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet with your caramelized onions. Cook together, breaking up the beef until it’s no longer pink and nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from feeling greasy.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well, letting these vibrant herbs and spices meld with the beef and onions. This seasoning step layers in essential savory elements that elevate the entire dish.
Step 5: Combine with Rice and Broth
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a large bowl and add the uncooked rice along with the beef broth. Stir gently to combine, making sure every grain of rice is bathed in that rich broth and mixed with the flavorful beef.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour your mixture in and cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam, helping the rice cook thoroughly. Bake for 30 minutes, which allows the rice to soften while flavors meld beautifully.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After removing the foil, generously sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese across the top. Return the dish uncovered to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. The cheese will melt into a creamy, bubbly layer that’s simply irresistible.
Step 8: Garnish and Crunch
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for five minutes to set. Then, top with crispy French fried onions and sprinkle with fresh parsley. That final crunch and burst of green color make this dish as inviting visually as it is delicious to taste.
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh chopped parsley adds a refreshing herbal note and a splash of color that brightens the dish. The French fried onions on top aren’t just for texture but also echo the iconic French onion soup flavor, making every bite memorable.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or even a tangy coleslaw. These lighter sides contrast the richness and create a well-rounded meal everyone will savor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancy dinner, serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with extra Swiss cheese and a sprig of parsley. Alternatively, scoop portions onto warm plates and drizzle with a little extra beef broth or a dollop of sour cream for added indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays delicious for up to three days, making for a convenient, tasty meal later on.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe dish or bag, and it will keep well for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. Microwaving works too for a quick fix, but the oven method preserves that lovely cheesy crust best.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice can work, but you’ll need to increase the cooking and baking time since it takes longer to soften. To avoid overcooking the beef, consider pre-cooking the brown rice separately before mixing it in.
Is there a vegetarian version of this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian twist while keeping all the fragrant onion goodness intact.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Swiss cheese is classic for its meltability and nutty flavor, but Gruyère or mozzarella would be excellent substitutes. Just choose a cheese that melts well to maintain that creamy topping.
What can I use instead of French fried onions?
If you don’t have French fried onions on hand, toasted breadcrumbs or crispy shallots make a great crunchy topping that still adds texture and flavor contrast.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The dish itself is mostly gluten-free if you ensure your beef broth and French fried onions are gluten-free varieties. Always check labels to be certain, especially with processed toppings.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the cozy, layered flavors of the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s a one-dish meal that captures the essence of home cooking with minimal effort and maximum comfort. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this casserole promises smiles and seconds at the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, savory dish combining caramelized onions, seasoned ground beef, and tender rice baked together under melted Swiss cheese, then topped with crispy French fried onions and fresh parsley for a delightful crunch and fresh finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup French fried onions (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for 10-12 minutes until they are caramelized and golden brown, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the mixture.
- Season Mixture: Season the beef and onions with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the beef and onion mixture with the uncooked rice and beef broth, combining all ingredients well.
- Prepare for Baking: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or butter. Pour the beef, rice, and broth mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake Covered: Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes in the preheated oven, allowing the rice to cook and absorb the flavors.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, and return it to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. Then, top with crunchy French fried onions and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving to add texture and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth for beef broth if desired, but it will slightly change the flavor.
- For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of Swiss and Gruyère cheese.
- If you prefer a milder onion flavor, reduce the sauté time for the onions.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baking from cold.
- French fried onions add a nice crunchy topping; they can be found in most grocery stores near the salad toppings or snack sections.
