French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Cozy, Hearty One-Dish Meal
Looking for a cozy, hearty dish that effortlessly combines comfort and flavor? The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is your perfect answer. This one-dish wonder brings together seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, creamy French onion soup, and melty mozzarella cheese into a bubbling casserole that’s sure to warm your soul.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner, a friendly potluck contribution, or a way to use leftovers creatively, this casserole checks all the boxes.
Its rich French onion flavor paired with the satisfying texture of rice and minced beef makes it special and memorable. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients means it’s approachable for home cooks at any skill level, without skimping on taste or comfort. Ready in under an hour, this casserole is the epitome of a stress-free meal that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Equipment
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- spatula or spoon
- oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 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
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- optional add-ins: sautéed mushrooms, green beans, or bell peppers
Instructions
- Top evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Season the beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring well to blend the flavors evenly.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Stir until well mixed.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in the dish.
- Top evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Casserole
Simple and Quick: Starts with pantry staples and takes just 40 minutes to prepare and bake.
Comfort Food Appeal: Savory and creamy French onion soup blends beautifully with ground beef and rice.
One-Dish Ease: Minimal cleanup with everything baked in a single casserole dish.
Family Friendly: Mild, flavorful, and filling for kids and adults alike.
Customizable: Easy to swap out cheeses or add herbs and veggies for personalized touches.
Ingredients for French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (choose lean or regular based on preference)
- 3 cups cooked white rice (day-old rice works best for texture)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup (the key flavor booster)
- 1 cup sour cream (adds creaminess and tang)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for gooey, golden topping)
- 2 tbsp butter (for browning beef)
- 1 tsp onion powder (extra onion flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Ingredient Tips & Substitutions:
Use cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier swap.
Replace mozzarella with Gruyère or provolone for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
For a creamier texture, mix some cream cheese with the sour cream.
Add sautéed mushrooms or green beans for extra veggies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat for a less greasy casserole.
- Season: Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing these flavorful touches in evenly.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooked ground beef, cooked rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream until well blended.
- Prep to bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Assemble: Evenly spread the beef and rice mixture in the dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place uncovered in the oven, baking for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color just before serving.
Recipe Details
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6 generous portions
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, warm in the oven at 350°F until bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. You can also freeze this casserole; portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
Serve your casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Fresh parsley or chives add both visual appeal and fresh flavor contrast. A side of crusty bread or garlic toast makes a perfect accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce.
Customizing Flavor and Spice
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat.
Stir in diced bell peppers or caramelized onions for sweeter depth.
Top with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese before baking for a crunchy crust.
Cultural Note: Classic American Comfort
This casserole draws inspiration from both classic French onion soup and hearty American home-cooked casseroles a marriage of rich, savory soup flavors with convenience and warmth. It’s a modern spin on comfort food that fits right into today’s busy lifestyles without sacrificing flavor or nostalgia.
