French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Name: French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 large onions, sliced; 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or Gruyere recommended); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon thyme

By:

Luna

December 19, 2025

Delicious French Onion Casserole with ground beef and rice served in a baking dish

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📑 Table of Contents ▶

Understanding the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Fundamentals
Preparation/Setup
Directions
Cooking Techniques for Casserole Perfection
Technique
Tips and Tricks
Perfecting Results with the Casserole
Perfecting Results
Troubleshooting and Variations
Serving and Storing The Casserole
Serving and Presentation
Pairings and Storage
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French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Sinking into the cozy aroma of a bubbling casserole brings back fond memories of sharing hearty meals with loved ones. The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole captures that warmth perfectly. A dish that combines layers of flavors, it embodies a comforting meal that pleases both the palate and the heart.

Cooking connects us to those cherished moments. Each ingredient plays a role, turning simple elements into a delightful centerpiece for any dinner table. The savory aroma of caramelized onions mingling with the rich flavor of ground beef creates a symphony of taste. This dish reminds me of evenings spent around the table, where food sparked laughter and stories flowed freely.

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In this busy world, simplifying meals without sacrificing flavor remains a priority. This casserole marries efficiency with deliciousness, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. The combination of ground beef, rice, and aromatic seasonings harmonizes beautifully, creating rich flavors that meld perfectly during baking.

This article will guide you through crafting the perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, from understanding the fundamental ingredients to ensuring ideal results in your kitchen.

Understanding the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Fundamentals

The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole stands out for its rich taste and straightforward preparation. The foundation lies in the balance of flavors from the ground beef, caramelized onions, and flavorful broth. Each component contributes uniquely to the overall dish, making it a comforting family favorite.

Ground beef acts as the robust protein base. Opt for lean ground beef to minimize excess fat while maintaining savory flavor. The onions, when caramelized, bring sweetness and depth, creating a comforting layer of taste that fuses beautifully with the other ingredients.

The rice serves as the perfect canvas, absorbing the flavors of the beef and broth while providing a satisfying texture. The choice of shredded cheese adds a creamy finish that complements the savory elements. Ingredients like thyme and garlic enhance the overall flavor profile, integrating warmth and aroma into every bite.

Preparation/Setup

Preparing the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole requires both planning and care for a successful outcome. Begin by gathering all ingredients and essential kitchen tools. Ensure you have a large skillet, a mixing bowl, and a greased casserole dish ready for assembly.

Preheating the oven is essential to achieving the right texture for your casserole. Set it to 350°F (175°C) before beginning to cook. This allows the dish to bake efficiently, resulting in melty cheese atop a perfectly cooked blend of ingredients.

Consider the following steps to set up for seamless assembly. First, slice the onions thinly to enhance their caramelization. Next, measure out the rice, broth, and seasonings, ensuring a smooth workflow. When it’s time to mix, everything should be within reach to stir together without delay.

Ingredients

To create your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef – provides hearty, protein-rich substance.
2 large onions, sliced – delivers sweetness when caramelized.
2 cups cooked rice – serves as a filling base.
2 cups beef broth – adds depth and moisture to the dish.
1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or Gruyere recommended) – creates a rich, creamy topping.
1 tablespoon olive oil – perfect for sautéing onions.
Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasonings for flavor enhancement.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds depth and aroma.
1 teaspoon thyme – incorporates herbal notes.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook until they caramelize, about 15-20 minutes.
Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet, breaking it up as you brown it. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, caramelized onions, beef mixture, and beef broth. Stir until all elements are well mixed.
Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
Top the mixture with shredded cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cooking Techniques for Casserole Perfection

Technique

Mastering the cooking techniques behind the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole ensures success. Start by getting comfortable with caramelizing onions; this step significantly enhances the dish’s flavor. Use medium heat and be patient, stirring occasionally to achieve that golden-brown color.

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When browning the ground beef, break it up gently to create nice texture and even cooking. This process helps the meat retain moisture while maintaining flavor. Rely on seasoning as you cook to build layers of taste—it can elevate the dish from good to great.

Mixing the ingredients thoroughly in the bowl is also crucial. Make sure the rice absorbs the beef broth, ensuring that every scoop feels juicy and flavorful. When ready to bake, spread the mixture evenly in the casserole dish, allowing even cooking throughout.

Tips and Tricks

To enhance your cooking experience for the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, follow these tips:

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh onions and quality ground beef yield better flavors. Opt for products from your local market when possible.
Cool the Onions: If time permits, cool the caramelized onions slightly before adding them to the beef. This can intensify their sweetness.
Let the Casserole Rest: Allowing the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving makes it easier to cut and serve, letting the flavors meld.
Explore Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or cheddar, to create unique twists while retaining the essential flavors.

Perfecting Results with the Casserole

Perfecting Results

Achieving the ultimate French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole involves some trial and error. Ensure you closely monitor the baking time and check for that golden bubbling cheese as an indicator of readiness.

Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the center can provide added assurance. A target temperature of 160°F ensures that the beef is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat while remaining juicy.

Leverage your understanding of flavors to adjust seasonings to personal preferences. Do you crave more garlic or a hint of spice? Adjust accordingly to create a casserole that truly feels custom.

Troubleshooting and Variations

Sometimes, things don’t turn out exactly as planned. If your casserole seems too dry, consider additional broth or cheese. Alternatively, if it’s too wet, increase the baking time slightly to allow moisture to evaporate. Experimenting is part of the fun.

Explore variations by adding vegetables. Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can introduce further nutritional value and flavor. Adjust the rice quantity to account for any additional ingredients, ensuring that each mouthful stays balanced.

Serving and Storing The Casserole

Serving and Presentation

Presenting the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole beautifully elevates the dining experience. Use a sharp knife to cut neat squares, revealing the layers within. Arrange the pieces on plates garnished with parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Consider serving alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to provide a refreshing contrast. This combination balances the richness of the casserole, expanding the meal into a well-rounded experience.

Pairings and Storage

To complement your casserole, serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. You could also pair it with refreshing sides, such as a garden salad or roasted vegetables. Make sure the flavors in the sides harmonize with the richness of the casserole without overshadowing it.

For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring that the cheese remains delightful and gooey.

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul. The delightful medley of flavors creates a comforting experience, perfect for any day of the week. Embark on this culinary journey to bring warmth into your kitchen, one casserole at a time.

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Author: emily
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, ground beef, and rice, topped with melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
2 large onions, sliced
2 cups cooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or Gruyere recommended)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon thyme

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook until they caramelize, about 15-20 minutes.
Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet, breaking it up as you brown it. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, caramelized onions, beef mixture, and beef broth. Stir until all elements are well mixed.
Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
Top the mixture with shredded cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!