Easy French Onion Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Easy French Onion Beef & Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal that combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and rich French onion flavors. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste (optional)
• Crispy fried onions, for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and add ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the meat, until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain excess fat.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt if using. Stir to mix well.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked beef and onion to the rice mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined.
5. Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Cover tightly with foil to trap steam.
6. Step 6: Bake covered for 50–60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Step 7: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using, add crispy fried onions in the last few minutes of baking.
8. Step 8: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure cleaner slices and a creamy texture.

Tips & Variations

• Use low-sodium beef broth and soup cans to control salt level.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and vegetables.
• Use Swiss cheese for a nuttier taste or mozzarella for a milder melt.
• For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after the final bake, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat the whole casserole covered with foil in a 350°F oven until hot. Avoid overcooking when reheating to keep the rice tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can use brown rice, but it will require a longer baking time and more liquid. Precook the brown rice partially before mixing or adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Easy French Onion Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 59 reviews

This Easy French Onion Beef & Rice Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal featuring savory ground beef, tender rice, and rich French onion and mushroom soups. Baked to perfection with melted cheese on top and optional crispy fried onions for extra texture, this casserole combines simple ingredients for a hearty, family-friendly dinner.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced

Rice and Liquids

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)

Seasonings and Extras

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste (optional)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• Crispy fried onions, for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Cook Beef and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until the beef is browned and the onions have softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Mix Rice and Soups: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt if desired. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Combine Beef Mixture: Add the cooked beef and onion mixture into the rice mixture and stir everything until fully incorporated.
5. Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam during baking.
6. Bake Covered: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake covered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Add Cheese and Final Bake: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese on top of the casserole. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using, sprinkle crispy fried onions over the top in the last few minutes.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow it to set, making for cleaner slices and a creamier texture before serving.

Notes

• Use low sodium beef broth to control salt levels in the dish.
• Substitute cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor if desired.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soups and check the crispy onion topping for gluten content or omit it.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance flavor.

Keywords: French onion, beef casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner, baked casserole, one dish meal