Description
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal combining caramelized onions, savory ground beef, tender rice, and a rich blend of cheeses. Enhanced with the deep flavors of French onion soup and beef broth, this casserole is baked to perfection and topped with melted mozzarella and Gruyère for a golden, bubbly finish. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a delicious twist on classic French onion soup in a filling casserole form.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can French onion soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20 to 25 minutes until they are beautifully caramelized and soft, developing a sweet and rich flavor.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a separate skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to infuse the beef with garlic flavor. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned ground beef mixture, caramelized onions, uncooked rice, French onion soup, beef broth, and sour cream. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the rice and meat are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in during baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the covered casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until the rice is tender and fully cooked through.
- Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. Then, switch to the broil setting and broil for 1 to 2 minutes or until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the casserole hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of color and fresh aroma.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth or low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
- You can substitute Gruyère with Swiss cheese if unavailable, though Gruyère offers a nuttier flavor.
- Ensure rice is fully cooked before serving; if undercooked, cover and bake a bit longer.
- For a lighter version, use lean ground beef and reduced-fat sour cream.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
