Name: Savory French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (lean beef is healthier); 3 cups Cooked White Rice (long grain or jasmine rice yields the best results); 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup (a homemade version can elevate this dish); 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Gruyère or provolone work for stronger flavor); 2 tbsp Butter (enhances richness when cooking the beef); 1 tsp Onion Powder (substitute fresh onions for robust taste); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (fresh garlic also works great); 1 tbsp Chopped Parsley (optional, as a fresh garnish)

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Introduction

This Savory French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Combining tender ground beef, flavorful French onion soup, and cheesy rice, it delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

A close-up of a baked dish in a white fluted ramekin showing three main layers: the bottom layer is brown, crumbly cooked ground meat; the middle layer is white, soft cooked rice mixed with the meat; topped with a golden-brown crispy baked cheese crust with green thyme sprigs for garnish. Some rice spills slightly over the edge of the ramekin. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the crispy texture of the top layer photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb Ground Beef (lean)
3 cups Cooked White Rice (long grain or jasmine)
1 can Condensed French Onion Soup
1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative)
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Gruyère or provolone can be substituted)
2 tbsp Butter
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Garlic Powder
Salt and Pepper to taste
1 tbsp Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, then drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Season the beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, cooked rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, then top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old rice to improve texture and absorb flavors better.
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Try topping with crispy fried onions just before serving for added crunch.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
Replace mozzarella with Gruyère or provolone for a bolder cheese flavor.
Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary to add aromatic herbal notes.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier grain alternative.

Storage

Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days after it cools completely. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe container; it keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in an oven at 300°F until hot throughout, or use a microwave for quicker reheating. Avoid freezing with the cheese topping; add fresh cheese before baking after thawing instead.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a baked layered dish in a white round ceramic ramekin with ridged sides. The dish has three visible layers: at the bottom, a rich dark brown minced meat layer with a crumbly texture, in the middle, a thick layer of moist white cooked rice, and on top, a golden brown crispy baked cheese layer that is slightly browned in spots with a few small green herb sprigs placed on top. Some rice grains are sticking out over the edge of the ramekin. The dish is placed on a dark surface with a white marbled texture in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use?

Lean ground beef is recommended for a healthier option with good texture and less fat. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers from the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Make sure it’s cooled completely before wrapping tightly and placing in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.