Irresistible French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Comfort Food Favorite
The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines seasoned ground beef, aromatic onions, tender rice, and a blend of melted cheeses. This one-pan meal offers a satisfying blend of savory flavors, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.Recipes Smile
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beefSoulfully Made+3Log in or sign up to view+3Recipes Smile+3
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, dicedLog in or sign up to view
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) French onion soupLog in or sign up to view
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soupLog in or sign up to view
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncookedLog in or sign up to view
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheeseTHIS IS NOT DIET FOOD+1Allrecipes+1
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheeseTHIS IS NOT DIET FOOD
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepperRecipes Smile
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- ½ cup crispy fried onions (for topping)Recipes Smile
Preparation Steps
- Sauté the Ground Beef and Onions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using).Recipes Smile
- Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Ingredients in a Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the uncooked rice evenly at the bottom.THIS IS NOT DIET FOOD
- Layer the cooked ground beef and onion mixture over the rice.
- Pour French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth over the meat and rice mixture.
- Stir gently to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top.
- Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add the Crispy Topping:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven.
- Sprinkle crispy fried onions over the melted cheese.The Chunky Chef+1THIS IS NOT DIET FOOD+1
- Return to the oven for 5 minutes to allow the onions to crisp up.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.THIS IS NOT DIET FOOD+1Soulfully Made+1
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Variations and Tips
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations such as Swiss, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas to add nutritional value and enhance the flavor profile.
- Spice Level: For a spicy kick, add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- Rice Alternatives: If preferred, use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the grains are fully cooked.
Conclusion
The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together familiar flavors in a convenient one-pan meal. Its adaptability allows for various substitutions and additions, making it a great option for families with diverse tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy crafting this delightful casserole in your kitchen!
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