This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together rich flavors in every bite. The combination of savory ground beef, tender rice, caramelized onions, and a luscious blend of cheeses creates an irresistible meal. The golden-brown, bubbly cheese topping adds the perfect finishing touch, making it a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is easy to prepare with minimal effort. The flavors meld beautifully as it bakes, creating a warm, homey dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a meal prep option or something to feed a crowd, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Easy to Make – Simple steps and common ingredients make this a stress-free meal.
Rich and Comforting – The deep flavors of French onion soup mix with melty cheese and hearty beef.
One-Pan Convenience – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup!
Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Family Favorite – A meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking, gathering the right tools will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – Essential for browning the ground beef and onions, allowing the flavors to develop.
Mixing Bowl – To combine the ingredients before transferring them to the baking dish.
9×13-inch Baking Dish – Ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden-brown cheese topping.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Perfect for stirring and breaking up the beef while cooking.
Cheese Grater – If using block cheese, grating it fresh enhances the melt and texture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Helps maintain the right ingredient proportions for consistency.

Having these tools ready will make assembling this casserole a breeze.

Preparation Tips

Brown the beef properly – Let it develop a slight crust before stirring to enhance the flavor.
Use freshly grated cheese – It melts better and has a richer taste compared to pre-shredded cheese.
Sauté onions until caramelized – This brings out the signature deep, sweet flavor of French onion soup.
Let the rice absorb the flavors – Mixing it with the beef and broth before baking ensures it’s well-seasoned.
Don’t skip the resting time – Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking to firm up and distribute the flavors evenly.

Following these tips will give you the best results for a delicious, comforting casserole.

Ingredients for This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

To make this rich and satisfying casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef – Adds hearty protein and a savory depth.
1 cup white rice (uncooked) – Absorbs flavors and provides the perfect texture.
1 large onion (sliced thinly) – Enhances the dish with a deep caramelized sweetness.
2 cups beef broth – Keeps the rice moist and infuses the casserole with a rich taste.
1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix – The key ingredient that brings out the signature flavor.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Adds creaminess and binds everything together.
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – For a gooey, melty topping.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a sharp, cheesy contrast.
2 tbsp butter – Helps caramelize the onions for extra flavor.
½ tsp garlic powder – A subtle hint of garlic enhances the overall taste.
Salt and pepper (to taste) – Adjust to your preference.

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh parsley – For a pop of color and freshness.
Fried onions – Adds a crispy texture on top for extra crunch.

These ingredients combine to create a casserole that’s loaded with flavor, texture, and creamy goodness!

Step 1: Prepare the Onions and Beef

In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Push the onions to the side and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, caramelized onions, uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the beef and rice mixture, spreading it evenly.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil to help the rice cook properly and retain moisture.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top, and return the dish to the oven.
Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to scoop.
Garnish with fresh parsley or crispy fried onions for extra texture and flavor.

Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and savory French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!

Notes

Rice Selection: White rice works best in this recipe, but if you prefer brown rice, adjust the cooking time since it takes longer to cook.
Cheese Variations: You can experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Swiss for a more traditional French onion flavor.
Soup Alternatives: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup for a slightly different taste.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top before serving for added texture.
Make it Creamier: Stir in ¼ cup of sour cream before baking for an extra creamy consistency.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Not Caramelizing the Onions Properly

Rushing the onion caramelization process will result in a lack of depth in flavor. Let them cook slowly over medium heat for the best results.

2. Using Too Much Liquid

Stick to the recommended measurements for beef broth and soup. Adding too much liquid can make the rice mushy.

3. Not Covering the Casserole While Baking

If you bake the casserole uncovered from the start, the rice may dry out before fully cooking. Always cover it for the first portion of baking.

4. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grating your own cheese ensures better texture and flavor.

5. Skipping the Resting Time

Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to settle and prevents it from being too runny when served.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll achieve the perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole every time!

What to Serve With French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This rich and cheesy casserole pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its hearty flavors. Here are some great options to round out your meal:

🥗 1. Fresh Green Salad

A simple side salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole.

🥦 2. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a touch of sweetness and crunch that contrasts well with the creamy casserole.

🍞 3. Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious flavors of the dish.

🍲 4. French Onion Soup

Double down on the French onion theme by serving this casserole with a bowl of classic French onion soup.

🥒 5. Pickles or Pickled Vegetables

The tanginess of pickled cucumbers, beets, or carrots cuts through the richness and enhances the flavors.

🥔 6. Mashed Potatoes

If you’re craving extra comfort, a side of creamy mashed potatoes makes this meal even more indulgent.

🍋 7. Steamed Asparagus with Lemon

The bright, citrusy flavor of asparagus with a squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing contrast to the dish.

🫘 8. Baked Beans

A slightly sweet and smoky side of baked beans complements the savory, cheesy casserole beautifully.

No matter what you choose, these sides will elevate your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole into a well-rounded, satisfying meal!

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

This casserole freezes well! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Reheating:

Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Add a little extra cheese on top for freshness.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~420
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~10g
Cholesterol: ~60mg
Fiber: ~2g
Sodium: ~900mg

Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to increase the baking time by 15-20 minutes and add extra broth to keep it from drying out.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, follow the same baking instructions.

3. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute cream of chicken soup or even make your own homemade cream sauce with butter, flour, and milk for a fresher alternative.

4. How do I prevent my casserole from drying out?

Make sure to cover it with foil while baking so the rice absorbs the moisture properly. Also, avoid overbaking once the cheese is added.

5. Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas would be great additions. Sauté them with the onions before mixing them into the casserole.

6. Can I use a different type of meat?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used as an alternative to ground beef. Just adjust the seasoning to match the meat’s flavor.

7. What’s the best cheese to use for this casserole?

Mozzarella and cheddar provide a great mix of meltiness and sharpness, but Gruyère or Swiss will enhance the French onion flavor even more.

8. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add cheese during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect comfort food—easy to make, loaded with rich flavors, and great for meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a dish to feed a crowd, this cheesy, hearty casserole won’t disappoint. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal, and enjoy the warm, savory goodness in every bite!