French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: The Ultimate One-Dish Comfort Food

Did you know that 73% of American families struggle to prepare satisfying weeknight dinners in under an hour? If you’re tired of the same old ground beef recipes and craving something that delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole might just revolutionize your dinner routine. This hearty, soul-warming dish combines the rich, savory essence of classic French onion soup with tender ground beef and perfectly cooked rice, creating a complete meal that requires just one dish and delivers maximum satisfaction. The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole transforms simple pantry staples into an extraordinary comfort food experience that will have your family asking for seconds every single time.

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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A comforting one-dish French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with tender ground beef and perfectly cooked rice. This hearty casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort.

• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef, lean (85/15 blend recommended)
• ½ to 1 teaspoon garlic salt, or to taste
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans beef consommé
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans French onion soup
• ¾ cup water
• 2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked (not minute rice)
• ¾ cup butter (1½ sticks), cut into slices

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, add ground beef and garlic salt to season. Cook and crumble ground beef until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. In the prepared baking dish, add rice and browned ground beef. Pour in beef consommé, French onion soup, and water. Stir until well combined.
4. Cut butter into thin slices and place evenly on top of the mixture.
5. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until rice is tender and top is golden.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.

Notes

• Do not use minute rice as it will become mushy and won’t absorb flavors properly.
• For a cheesy version, sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
• Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Add 2 tablespoons of water when reheating to prevent drying out.
• Brown rice can be used but increase liquid by ¼ cup and cooking time by 15 minutes.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (1/8 of recipe)
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: French onion ground beef casserole, one dish meal, comfort food, easy casserole recipe, ground beef and rice

Ingredients List – French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Main Components:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (85/15 blend recommended for optimal flavor and texture)
• ½ to 1 teaspoon garlic salt (adjust to taste preference)
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans beef consommé (adds deep, concentrated beef flavor)
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans French onion soup (the star ingredient that creates those iconic caramelized onion notes)
• ¾ cup water (helps achieve perfect rice texture)
• 2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked (avoid minute rice for best results)
• ¾ cup butter (1½ sticks), cut into thin slices for even melting

Smart Substitutions:

• Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option
• Vegetable broth works for vegetarian versions
• Brown rice adds fiber (increase liquid by ¼ cup and cooking time by 15 minutes)
• Coconut oil or olive oil can substitute butter for dairy-free needs

Timing

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes

This efficient timeline represents approximately 25% less hands-on work compared to traditional multi-pot rice and beef dishes. The beauty of this casserole lies in its set-and-forget approach, allowing you to prepare other sides or simply relax while the oven works its magic.

Step-by-Step Instructions – French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen Canvas

Preheat your oven to 425°F and generously spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This higher temperature ensures proper rice cooking while developing those coveted golden edges that make casseroles irresistible.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Foundation

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef along with garlic salt. Cook while breaking apart with a wooden spoon or spatula, allowing the meat to develop a beautiful golden-brown color. This browning process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates complex flavors that elevate the entire dish. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains.

Step 3: Build Your Casserole Base

In your prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked rice with the browned ground beef. The raw rice will absorb all those wonderful flavors as it cooks, creating layers of taste in every bite.

Step 4: Add the Liquid Gold

Pour the beef consommé, French onion soup, and water over the rice and beef mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution. The liquid should cover the rice by about ½ inch – this ratio is crucial for achieving perfectly tender grains.

Step 5: The Butter Crown

Arrange the butter slices evenly across the top of your casserole. As it melts, the butter will create a rich, golden layer that helps develop a slightly crispy top while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.

Step 6: The Two-Stage Baking Process

Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This covered phase allows the rice to steam and absorb the liquids properly. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the top to develop a beautiful golden color and slight crispness.

Step 7: The Final Touch

Once cooking is complete, remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork to separate the rice grains and distribute the flavors evenly before serving.

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Nutritional Information about French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Per Serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 385
• Protein: 18g (36% daily value)
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Iron: 15% daily value
• Vitamin B12: 25% daily value

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole provides a well-balanced macronutrient profile, with high-quality protein from the beef supporting muscle maintenance and complex carbohydrates from rice providing sustained energy. The beef consommé adds significant iron content, making this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole dish particularly beneficial for those needing to boost their iron intake.

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Healthier Alternatives for the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Protein Modifications:

• Substitute ground turkey (93/7) to reduce calories by approximately 80 per serving
• Use plant-based ground meat alternatives for vegetarian options
• Try ground chicken breast for the leanest protein option

Grain Upgrades:

• Replace white rice with brown rice for added fiber and nutrients
• Try cauliflower rice for a low-carb version (reduce liquid by half)
• Experiment with wild rice blend for enhanced texture and nutrition

Sodium-Conscious Swaps:

• Use low-sodium beef broth and French onion soup
• Replace garlic salt with fresh minced garlic and herbs
• Add fresh thyme and rosemary for flavor without sodium

Dairy-Free Options:

• Substitute butter with olive oil or avocado oil
• Use dairy-free butter alternatives that melt similarly

Serving Suggestions for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Classic Pairings:

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors
• Steam fresh broccoli or green beans for added color and nutrition
• Offer crusty French bread for those who want to soak up every bit of flavor

Creative Presentations:

• Top with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color
• Serve in individual ramekins for elegant portion control
• Pair with roasted root vegetables for a complete autumn meal
• Accompany with pickled vegetables to cut through the richness

Beverage Matches:

• Light red wines complement the beef beautifully
• Sparkling water with lemon provides a refreshing contrast
• Iced tea or lemonade work wonderfully for family dinners

Common Mistakes to Avoid – French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Rice-Related Errors:

• Never use minute rice – it becomes mushy and doesn’t absorb flavors properly
• Don’t skip the browning step for ground beef – it’s essential for flavor development
• Avoid lifting the foil during the first 30 minutes, as this releases crucial steam

Liquid Balance Issues:

• Insufficient liquid leads to undercooked, crunchy rice
• Too much liquid creates a soupy consistency
• Always measure liquids accurately for consistent results

Temperature and Timing Mistakes:

• Cooking at too low temperature prevents proper rice cooking
• Removing foil too early doesn’t allow proper steaming
• Not letting the casserole rest results in runny serving portions

Seasoning Oversights:

• Taste and adjust seasoning after browning beef
• Remember that canned soups already contain salt
• Add fresh herbs only after cooking to preserve their flavor

Storing Tips for the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Refrigerator Storage:

• Cool completely before storing to prevent condensation
• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
• Divide into portion-sized containers for easy reheating
• Label with date and contents for food safety

Freezer Storage:

• Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers
• Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating
• Consider freezing in meal-sized portions for convenience

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: Cover and reheat at 350°F for 20-25 minutes
• Microwave: Add 2 tablespoons water, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals
• Stovetop: Add liquid and heat gently, stirring occasionally
• Always ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Prepare through step 4, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours
• Add 10-15 minutes to cooking time if starting from cold
• Brown beef up to 2 days ahead and store separately

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Conclusion

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole delivers restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. The combination of savory French onion soup, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked rice creates a complete meal that brings families together around the dinner table. With its simple preparation, one-dish convenience, and incredible flavor profile, this recipe solves the weeknight dinner dilemma while providing the comfort food experience everyone craves.

Ready to transform your dinner routine? Try this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole tonight and discover why it’s becoming a family favorite across America. Share your cooking results and variations in the comments below – we love hearing how you make this French Onion Ground Beef recipe your own! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more time-saving, family-friendly recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.

FAQs

Why is it called French onion? The dish gets its name from the French onion soup used as a key ingredient. French onion soup originated in France and features caramelized onions in a rich beef broth, often topped with cheese and bread. This casserole captures those same deep, savory onion flavors in a convenient one-dish format.

What is the difference between a dish and a casserole? A casserole specifically refers to a dish that’s cooked slowly in the oven in a covered container, typically combining multiple ingredients that cook together. While “dish” is a general term for any prepared food, a casserole involves the unique cooking method where ingredients meld together during the baking process.

What are the ingredients for French onion soup? Traditional French onion soup contains caramelized onions, beef stock or broth, herbs like thyme and bay leaves, and is typically topped with bread and cheese. The canned version used in this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole recipe provides those concentrated flavors in a convenient form.

What is the difference between beef stew and beef casserole? Beef stew is typically cooked on the stovetop with more liquid, creating a soup-like consistency with distinct pieces of vegetables and meat. A beef casserole is baked in the oven with less liquid, allowing ingredients to bind together more cohesively while developing different textures and flavors.

What do you put in beef casserole? Common beef casserole ingredients include ground or cubed beef, vegetables like onions and carrots, starches such as rice or potatoes, liquid (broth or soup), and seasonings. The beauty of casseroles lies in their flexibility – you can adapt ingredients based on preferences and what’s available in your pantry.

Is stew meat just chuck roast? Stew meat often comes from chuck roast, but it can also include cuts from round, shoulder, or other tough cuts that benefit from slow cooking. Chuck roast is preferred because it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly, making it ideal for both stews and casseroles that require longer cooking times.