French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish savory, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Tender rice and juicy ground beef are baked together in a rich blend of French onion soup and creamy mushroom sauce, then topped with melted cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it’s a one-pan meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day but comes together with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – for a deeper, richer flavor
• ½ cup sour cream – for a creamier, more indulgent texture
• Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers – for extra texture and heartiness

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the beef and onion:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent. Drain off any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming oily.
3. Mix everything together:
   Stir in the French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked rice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated.
4. Transfer to the baking dish:
   Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly for consistent cooking.
5. Cover and bake:
   Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add the cheese:
   Remove the foil, sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese, and return to the oven uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
7. Serve:
   Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or crispy fried onions for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Variation

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