French Onion Beef Rice Casserole

This French onion ground beef and rice casserole brings together all the comforting flavors of classic French onion soup in a hearty, satisfying meal. The rich savory taste combined with the convenience of a one-dish dinner makes this recipe a regular on my family's dinner table during busy weeknights when we crave something substantial yet easy to prepare.

I first created this casserole when looking for new ways to use ground beef beyond our usual tacos and spaghetti. The French onion soup mix was sitting in my pantry and inspired this combination that has become one of our most requested comfort foods especially during the colder months.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base perfect for absorbing all the French onion flavors
• Long grain white rice: Absorbs the savory broth while maintaining its texture through baking
• French onion soup mix: Delivers instant depth of flavor without needing hours of caramelizing onions
• Beef broth: Creates the perfect cooking liquid for tender rice while adding richness
• Sour cream: Adds creaminess and balances the savory elements with a subtle tang
• Shredded cheese: Forms that irresistible golden crust reminiscent of traditional French onion soup
• French fried onions: Create a crunchy textured topping that complements the creamy casserole beneath
• Butter: Enhances richness and helps create a velvety texture throughout
• Garlic powder: Adds complementary flavor that enhances the onion notes without overpowering

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. This temperature allows the casserole to cook evenly while developing flavor without burning the cheese topping.

Brown the Beef:

Cook your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until completely browned breaking it into small even pieces as it cooks. Be sure to drain any excess fat which could make your casserole greasy, then season with salt, pepper and garlic powder to build the first layer of flavor.

Mix the Rice Base:

In a large mixing bowl combine the uncooked rice, French onion soup mix and beef broth stirring thoroughly to ensure the soup mix dissolves completely. The uncooked rice will absorb the flavorful liquid during baking resulting in perfectly seasoned grains.

Combine Main Components:

Add your seasoned ground beef and sour cream to the rice mixture folding everything together until evenly distributed. The sour cream will create pockets of creaminess throughout the finished dish while adding a subtle tanginess.

Transfer and Top:

Pour your mixture into the prepared baking dish spreading it into an even layer. Cover the entire surface with shredded cheese making sure to reach the edges for that beautiful golden crust.

Initial Bake:

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. The cover traps steam which cooks the rice perfectly while allowing flavors to meld without drying out.

Reveal and Brown:

Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 more minutes until you see the cheese bubbling and beginning to turn golden around the edges. This uncovered baking creates that desirable cheesy crust.

Add Crunchy Element:

Sprinkle the French fried onions over the melted cheese and return to the oven for 5 minutes. Watch carefully during this step as the onions can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly.

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My absolute favorite part of this casserole is the contrast between the crispy French fried onions and the creamy rice mixture beneath. It reminds me of sharing French onion soup with my grandmother who taught me that food is always better when it has different textures in each bite.

Make Ahead Options

This casserole can be fully assembled up to the point of baking then covered tightly and refrigerated for 24 hours. When ready to cook simply add an additional 10 minutes to the covered baking time to account for the chilled ingredients. For longer storage prepare through step 5 without adding cheese then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator add cheese and continue with baking instructions.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version consider using ground turkey or chicken in place of beef and low sodium broth. Brown rice can replace white rice but will require approximately 15 minutes of additional cooking time and an extra 1/4 cup of broth. The sour cream can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a tangier lower fat option. For those avoiding dairy completely consider using a dairy free cream cheese alternative and plant based cheese shreds on top.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans adds color and nutritional balance. For a truly comforting meal serve with warm crusty bread for sopping up any delicious sauce left on the plate. During summer months consider adding a fresh tomato cucumber salad on the side for brightness.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers will keep refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The casserole reheats beautifully in the microwave for quick lunches but for best texture reheat in a 325°F oven covered with foil until warmed through about 15 to 20 minutes. The crunchy onion topping will lose some crispness upon storage but the flavor remains delicious. For best results when planning for leftovers reserve some French fried onions to add fresh when reheating.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, add about 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time. Add the French-fried onions only during the final 5 minutes of baking for optimal crispiness.

→ What can I substitute for French onion soup mix?

If you don't have French onion soup mix, you can make your own by combining 1/4 cup dried minced onions, 2 tablespoons beef bouillon granules, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon parsley, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well and use as directed in the recipe.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice requires more liquid (add an extra 1/2 cup of broth) and longer cooking time (add about 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time). The texture will be slightly chewier but still delicious.

→ What cheese works best for this casserole?

Both mozzarella and Swiss cheese work wonderfully in this casserole. Swiss cheese provides more authentic French onion flavor, while mozzarella offers that classic stretchy cheese pull. For the best of both worlds, try using a combination of the two cheeses.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth if the casserole seems dry when reheating.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Prepare through the baking step (without the French-fried onions), cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time. Add French-fried onions just before serving.