French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

recip


  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
  • Optional: French-fried onions for extra crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

2. Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes, until they are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze the pan.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

3. Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Push the caramelized onions to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef to the other side.
  2. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Stir the beef and onions together, then season with thyme, salt, and black pepper.

4. Prepare the Rice Mixture

  1. In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and beef broth. Stir to combine.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. (Follow package instructions if using brown rice.)

5. Assemble the Casserole

  1. Transfer the rice and beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  2. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Optional: Add French-fried onions for extra crunch.

6. Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning (watch closely to avoid burning).

7. Rest and Serve

  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
  3. Enjoy every bite of this cheesy, hearty, and indulgent French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!
  4. Perfect as a standalone main course or paired with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly caramelized onions and high-quality ground beef make a noticeable difference in flavor.
  • Switch Cheeses: Substitute mozzarella with Swiss, Gruyère, or cheddar for variety.
  • Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
  • Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole combines the rich, savory goodness of caramelized onions and ground beef with the comforting texture of fluffy rice and gooey cheese into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The layers ensure even distribution of flavors, while the cheesy topping adds a delightful contrast. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love

Whether you’re craving something hearty and comforting, looking for a way to feed a crowd, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this casserole might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨


 

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