French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Looking for a hearty, no-fuss meal that’s packed with flavor? This French onion ground beef and rice casserole is everything you need for a comforting dinner.

With savory beef, tender rice, and the rich flavors of French onion soup and beef consommé, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make.

Topped with melty mozzarella and ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something cozy. Trust me, your family will be coming back for seconds!

French Onion Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Beef Casserole with Rice

  • Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a warm, comforting casserole ready to enjoy in under an hour.
  • Flavorful: The French onion soup and beef consommé infuse the rice with deep, savory flavors, while the ground beef adds richness.
  • One-Pan Meal: This casserole is a complete meal with protein, carbs, and rich flavors all in one dish.
  • Great for Leftovers: The casserole stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
  • Versatile: You can customize the dish with your favorite add-ins or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

For this amazing casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cans or 10.5-ounce beef consommé
  • 2 cans or 10.5-ounce French onion soup
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¾ cup water
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 3 oz French fried onions

Optional Add-ons

  • Sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor
  • Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for French Onion Beef Casserole with Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

Sauté the onion for about 3-5 minutes on medium heat, just until it softens—no need to fully caramelize it. Keep stirring to avoid browning. Once done, transfer it to a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the ground beef over medium heat. Add the garlic powder and black pepper and cook the beef, crumbling it as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In the prepared baking dish, add the uncooked rice and the cooked ground beef. Pour in the beef consommé, French onion soup, and water. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed in the mixture.

Step 5: Add Butter

Cut the butter into slices and place the slices evenly over the top of the casserole mixture. This will melt during baking and add richness to the dish.

Step 6: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil to lock in moisture and bake for 30 minutes. This step helps cook the rice while keeping it tender and flavorful.

Step 7: Uncover and Continue Baking

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes, allowing the casserole to cook through and the top to become slightly golden. You’ll know it’s done when the rice is tender and the broth has absorbed into the rice.

Step 8: Final Bake

Top the dish with mozzarella cheese and French fried onions and bake for another 5-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the onions crispy golden.

Step 9: Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a fork to fluff the rice before serving, ensuring it has a light, airy texture.

Storage and Serving

Leftover French Onion Beef Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

If you want to freeze the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and reheated in the oven.

Tips for Success

  • Brown the Beef Well: Make sure to cook the beef thoroughly and brown it well to enhance the flavor of the casserole.
  • Use Long-Grain Rice: Do not use minute rice for this recipe, as it does not cook the same way and may affect the texture.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Depending on the saltiness of your beef consommé and French onion soup, adjust the garlic salt to your taste. If you prefer a stronger onion flavor, consider adding a bit of onion powder.

Variations

  • Mushroom Lovers: For extra depth of flavor, sauté some mushrooms and add them to the casserole mixture before baking.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef for a spicy version of the casserole.

Summing it up

And there you have it—a comforting, flavor-packed French onion beef casserole with rice that’s sure to become a household favorite. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights, leftovers, or even meal prep. 

Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twist, this dish delivers every single time. So grab a plate, dig in, and enjoy the rich, cheesy, and satisfying goodness of this crowd-pleasing casserole!

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