French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a one-pan wonder that combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and the bold flavors of French onion soup. It’s simple to make, yet packed with flavor thanks to the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and beef broth. The Swiss cheese on top adds the perfect amount of creaminess, and the dish comes together easily, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned home cooks alike. Plus, it’s family-friendly and the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a meal that keeps on giving.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in the French onion soup, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the rice to the skillet and stir well to combine. Cover and reduce the heat to low, letting the rice absorb the liquid for about 15 minutes.
6. Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly in the dish.
7. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, you can stir in vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers.
• Use different cheese: While Swiss cheese gives the casserole a great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to bring some heat to the dish.
• Ground turkey or chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to add extra liquid and allow more time for the rice to cook.

2. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Let it cool completely, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour.

3. Can I use a different type of soup instead of French onion soup?

You can try using other soups like onion soup mix combined with beef broth, or even cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble it, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to increase the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

5. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat, tofu, or lentils. Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a vegetarian version of this casserole.

6. Can I cook the rice before adding it to the casserole?

It’s not necessary to cook the rice beforehand, as it will cook in the casserole itself and absorb all the flavors. However, if you prefer, you can cook the rice separately before mixing it in.

7. Can I use other cheeses besides Swiss cheese?

Definitely! Cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère would all be great alternatives to Swiss cheese, each adding its own flavor and texture.

8. Can I make this casserole in a smaller dish?

Yes, if you don't have a 9x13-inch dish, you can use a smaller one. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, and check that the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and golden.

9. What side dishes go well with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. For something heartier, you could serve it with garlic bread or a side of mashed potatoes.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some spice, you can incorporate chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños into the mixture. For an extra kick, try adding some pepper jack cheese on top.

Conclusion

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and simple ingredients. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With the option to personalize it with different cheeses and spices, this recipe is versatile and easy to adapt to your tastes. Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and hearty casserole on your next busy night—it’s the kind of dish that everyone will love!