French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Hearty, Flavorful Meal in One Dish!
Looking for a simple, comforting meal that the whole family will love? This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the answer! With savory ground beef, tender rice, and the rich, delicious flavor of French onion soup, this casserole comes together easily in one dish. It’s the perfect balance of hearty and flavorful, ideal for busy nights or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together in one casserole dish, saving time and cleanup.
- Rich & Flavorful: The combination of French onion soup, beef broth, and diced tomatoes gives this dish a delicious, savory base.
- Hearty & Satisfying: Ground beef and rice make this a filling, comforting meal.
- Easy & Quick: This casserole comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Equipment Needed:
- Large Skillet: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Casserole Dish: To bake and combine all the ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the beef mixture.
- Knife and Cutting Board: To slice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure the ingredients accurately.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef (Time: 5-7 minutes)
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat, if needed.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic (Time: 3-4 minutes)
Add the sliced onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Casserole Ingredients (Time: 2 minutes)
In a large casserole dish, combine the browned beef mixture with the rice, French onion soup, diced tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bake the Casserole (Time: 35-40 minutes)
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Check halfway through to ensure the rice is cooking properly and add a bit more broth if necessary.
5. Serve & Enjoy (Time: 2 minutes)
Once baked, remove the foil and give the casserole a final stir. Serve hot, and enjoy this comforting, hearty meal!
Tips for the Perfect French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:
- Rice Tips: For best results, use long-grain white rice, as it cooks perfectly in this casserole without becoming mushy. Be sure to use a covered casserole dish to trap the moisture and cook the rice evenly.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add extra seasonings like thyme, rosemary, or a sprinkle of onion powder for more depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Cheesy: Top with shredded cheese during the last 5-10 minutes of baking for a melty, cheesy finish.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes! You can use other types of rice, such as brown rice or jasmine rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for brown rice, which takes longer to cook.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After it has cooled, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
Additional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
Why You’ll Love This Meal:
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a deliciously easy dish that combines the savory flavors of beef, French onion soup, and rice into a comforting, one-pan meal. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy night or looking for a dish that will warm you up on a chilly evening, this casserole is sure to be a hit!
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