French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole brings together everything I love about classic French onion soup and transforms it into a hearty, comforting dinner. The creamy French onion sauce mixed with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and bubbling mozzarella creates something truly special.

I’ll never forget the first time I made this casserole for a potluck. I was nervous because it seemed almost too simple, but when I saw people going back for seconds and thirds, I knew this recipe was a keeper. The combination of savory beef, aromatic onion soup, tangy sour cream, and melted cheese creates these incredible layers of flavor that remind you why casseroles are such comfort food classics. This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole has become my go-to dish when I need to feed a crowd or just want something cozy and satisfying on a busy weeknight.

Casserole Ingredients You’ll Need

I always use day-old rice from the fridge for this casserole because it has a better texture and absorbs the sauce perfectly. Pro tip: go for an 85/15 lean-to-fat ground beef ratio to get rich flavor without excess grease pooling in your dish.

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 cups cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley, optional

How to Make This Casserole

I recommend browning the beef thoroughly before mixing everything together. This develops better flavor and ensures the casserole doesn’t end up greasy.

Step 1: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned completely with no pink remaining. Drain any excess fat from the pan.

Step 2: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well so the seasonings coat all the beef evenly. The aroma at this stage tells you you’re building good flavor.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, cooked rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Mix everything together until well incorporated. The sour cream should be evenly distributed throughout, creating a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 5: Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Press it down gently with the back of a spoon so there are no air pockets. This helps everything cook evenly.

Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top of the casserole. Make sure to cover the entire surface so every serving gets plenty of melted cheese.

Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown in spots. You’ll see the edges bubbling and the cheese will have that irresistible melted look.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. This brief resting time lets the casserole set slightly, making it easier to serve neat portions.

Perfect Sides for French Onion Casserole

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is rich and filling, so pairing it with lighter, fresher sides creates a balanced meal.

Crisp Green Salad: Fresh mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette cut through the richness of the creamy casserole and add freshness to your plate.

Crusty French Bread: Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and adds that classic bistro feel.

Garlic Roasted Green Beans: Tender-crisp green beans with garlic provide a nutritious vegetable side that complements the savory casserole beautifully.

Caesar Salad: The bold flavors of Caesar dressing and crunchy croutons pair wonderfully with this French onion beef casserole.

Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms sautéed in butter add depth and work perfectly with the French onion flavors.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that balances the rich casserole.

Apple Cranberry Coleslaw: The sweet-tart coleslaw adds crunch and brightness that contrasts nicely with the warm, creamy casserole.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide color, nutrition, and a pleasant contrast to the savory main dish.

More Comforting Ground Beef Casseroles

This French onion ground beef and rice casserole delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort, much like other easy one-dish dinners in the collection. The Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is another family favorite that bakes everything together for fuss-free cleanup, while the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta offers similar creamy richness on the stovetop.

For lighter alternatives that still satisfy, consider the Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry packed with fresh vegetables, or the Quick Korean Ground Beef Bowl that brings exciting international flavors to your dinner table in just minutes.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store leftover French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld together even more overnight, making leftovers delicious.

When reheating, I recommend covering individual portions and microwaving until heated through, or warming the whole dish in a 300°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Add a tablespoon or two of water or broth if the casserole seems dry.

Pro tip: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The rice may be slightly softer after freezing, but the flavor remains excellent.

Common Casserole Questions

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