Save
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting all-in-one meal that combines savory beef, tender rice, and rich cheese with the unforgettable flavor of French onion soup mix. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without complicated steps. The crispy onion topping adds a delightful crunch that elevates the dish to a family favorite.
I made this during a chilly evening when I needed something warm and filling. Ever since, it’s become a go-to for cozy dinners, and my family always asks for seconds.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef 1.5 pounds: provides rich protein and meaty flavor, choose lean for less grease
- Rice 1 cup: absorbs the flavors and makes the casserole hearty, long grain works best for fluffy texture
- Olive Oil 2 tablespoons: helps sauté the onions without overpowering other tastes
- French Onion Soup Mix 1 packet: the star seasoning pack that brings that classic French onion soup richness
- Fried Onions 1 cup: for crunchy topping, look for crispy fresh batches not oily ones
- Shredded Swiss Cheese 1 cup: melts smoothly and adds nuttiness, opt for high quality for best melt
- Grated Parmesan Cheese ½ cup: sharpness rounds out the cheese topping, freshly grated is ideal
- Onion 1 diced: fresh onions build a flavorful base, firm and white or yellow onions are best
- Thyme 1 teaspoon: earthy herb that pairs wonderfully with beef and onion flavors
- Beef Broth 2 cups: creates moistness and deep beefy taste, homemade or low sodium preferred
- Salt 1 teaspoon: balances overall flavor
- Garlic Powder 1 teaspoon: adds gentle garlic notes enhancing savoriness
- Onion Powder 1 teaspoon: boosts the onion flavor profile without overpowering
- Black Pepper ½ teaspoon: a subtle kick to season the meat
- Butter 4 tablespoons: slices melt over the casserole adding richness and helping browning
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Onions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they turn translucent and slightly soft. This step softens the onions releasing their sweetness which forms a flavorful base.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Add ground beef to the skillet with onions. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook over medium heat breaking up the meat with a spatula until fully browned. Drain excess fat and remove from heat to prevent greasiness.
- Mix the Casserole Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned ground beef mixture, uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir gently to distribute the soup mix and broth evenly. This mixture will soak up the broth while baking.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the beef and rice mixture evenly into the dish. Slice butter into small pieces and scatter over the top. The butter will help the casserole brown beautifully and add extra richness.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil. Place in the preheated oven set to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 30 minutes to start cooking the rice and meld the flavors while keeping moisture trapped inside.
- Add Cheese Topping:
- Remove the foil carefully. Sprinkle Swiss and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the casserole. The cheeses melt and create a creamy, flavorful crust.
- Bake Uncovered:
- Return the casserole to the oven uncovered. Continue baking for another 30 minutes or until the rice is tender, the cheese is melted and golden, and the top has started to crisp.
- Add Crispy Onions:
- Sprinkle fried onions over the casserole. Place back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the onion topping for that perfect crunch.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Let the casserole sit a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely.
Save
The French onion soup mix is truly the soul of this casserole. I remember making this for a family gathering once and the fried onion crunch combined with melted cheese had everyone asking for the recipe. The simplicity of mixing pantry basics into something this flavorful is what makes it special to me.
Storage Tips
This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit covered with foil to keep it moist, or microwave for quicker meals. It also freezes nicely, just thaw overnight in the fridge before warming up.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version. Brown rice works if you soak it beforehand or increase baking time slightly. Swiss cheese can be swapped for Gruyere or Mozzarella depending on your taste. If you can’t find French onion soup mix, use a combination of onion powder, beef bouillon, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess that complements the rich savory flavors. Leftovers make fantastic hearty wraps or stuffed peppers too.
Why French Onion Soup Inspired Casseroles Are Beloved
French onion soup is a classic comfort food with roots in French cuisine dating back centuries. It has inspired countless dishes including this casserole that takes the rich caramelized onion flavor and layers it with meat and cheese for a different yet familiar experience. This kind of casserole brings that restaurant flavor home with less fuss.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of rice works best for this dish?
Long-grain white rice is ideal as it cooks evenly, absorbing the broth and flavors without becoming mushy.
- → Can I use fresh onions instead of fried onions for the topping?
Fresh onions won’t provide the same crunch or caramelized flavor, so fried onions are recommended for the topping’s texture.
- → How can I enhance the beef flavor in this bake?
Adding Worcestershire sauce while browning the beef intensifies the savory depth and complements the onion flavor.
- → Is it necessary to cover the casserole while baking initially?
Covering traps steam, allowing the rice to soften fully before uncovering for the cheese to brown and crisp the topping.
- → What can I substitute for Swiss cheese if unavailable?
Gruyère or mozzarella can be used as alternatives, offering similar meltiness and mild flavor.