French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

If you love the rich, comforting flavors of French onion soup but want something heartier and easier to prepare, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect solution. Combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and sweet caramelized onions, this casserole captures the essence of French onion soup in a satisfying, one-dish meal. Topped with melted Swiss cheese and crispy French fried onions, every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

What makes this recipe stand out is how it melds simple ingredients into an impressive, layered casserole with deep, aromatic notes of garlic, onion, and thyme. The beef broth cooks the rice perfectly, infusing it with savory richness, while the ground beef adds protein and heartiness. Finished off with crispy onion topping and fresh parsley for brightness, this dish is a sure winner for anyone craving a homestyle, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Classic – Combines the beloved French onion flavors with a filling, meaty casserole.
2. One-Dish Meal – Rice, beef, and onions cooked together make cleanup easy and dinner hassle-free.
3. Crowd Pleaser – Perfect for feeding family or guests with minimal effort.
4. Flavorful Layers – Garlic, onion powder, thyme, and beef broth build deep, savory notes.
5. Textural Contrast – Melted Swiss cheese and crispy French fried onions add richness and crunch.

Ingredients

• Ground Beef
• Long-Grain White Rice
• Beef Broth
• Large Onion (thinly sliced)
• Olive Oil
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Dried Thyme
• Salt and Pepper
• Shredded Swiss Cheese
• French Fried Onions (for topping)
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Cheese Swap: Use Gruyere or mozzarella for different melting qualities and flavor profiles.
• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for mild heat.
• Brown Rice: Substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice; increase cooking time and broth accordingly.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before baking for a creamier texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and caramelized, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with onions. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Broth

Add the uncooked rice to the beef and onion mixture, stirring to coat the grains. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Onions

Remove foil, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for another 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Top and Garnish

Sprinkle French fried onions on top just before serving for crunch. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use thinly sliced onions for better caramelization and texture.
• Stir occasionally while cooking onions to prevent burning.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the casserole set.
• If rice isn’t fully cooked after baking, cover and bake a few minutes longer with a splash of broth.
• Add French fried onions last to keep them crispy.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main dish with a simple green salad.
• Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Enjoy alongside crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Serve as a hearty dish at potlucks or family dinners.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a fresh pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the casserole completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, but cooking times and flavor will vary slightly.

2. Can I use instant rice?

Instant rice is not recommended because it cooks much faster and may become mushy.

3. What if I don’t have beef broth?

Use vegetable broth or water with a beef bouillon cube as a substitute.

4. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and assemble it in advance, then refrigerate and bake when ready.

5. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Cover it with foil while baking to retain moisture.

6. Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Smoked paprika, thyme, or rosemary work well.

7. Can I make this gluten-free?

Ensure French fried onions are gluten-free or omit the topping.

8. How thick should the onion slices be?

Thin slices about 1/8 inch thick caramelize best.

9. Is Swiss cheese necessary?

Swiss cheese gives a nutty flavor, but Gruyere or mozzarella are great alternatives.

10. How to keep French fried onions crispy?

Add them just before serving, not during baking.

Conclusion

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the best of French onion soup into a hearty, easy-to-make meal. Combining savory beef, tender rice, and sweet caramelized onions topped with melted Swiss cheese and crispy onions, this casserole satisfies cravings for both comfort and elegance. Ideal for busy nights or casual entertaining, it’s a versatile recipe sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and simple prep that make this casserole a true crowd-pleaser.

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