why make this recipe
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines rich flavors with comforting ingredients. It’s a great way to bring the taste of French onion soup into a simple, hearty casserole. This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a warm meal that is both filling and easy to prepare.
how to make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups French onion sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like Swiss or mozzarella)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the rice, French onion sauce, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serve this casserole hot, right from the oven. You can enjoy it with a side salad, some crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. This dish is great for family dinners or special occasions.
how to store French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven until it’s warmed through. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
tips to make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- For extra flavor, try adding some herbs like thyme or parsley.
- You can use brown rice instead of white rice; just adjust the cooking time according to the rice package instructions.
- If you like a little crunch, top with breadcrumbs along with the cheese before baking.
variation
Feel free to mix in some cooked vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to add more nutrients and flavor to the dish. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well. Cheddar or gouda would also be delicious.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Just add the cheese in the last 30 minutes.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for less fat.
- 1 cup white rice Can substitute with brown rice, adjusting cooking time.
- 2 cups French onion sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (like Swiss or mozzarella) Can also use cheddar or gouda.
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth Use low sodium for a healthier option.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the rice, French onion sauce, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
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