French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Introduction

When I first tried making French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, I knew it would be a hit with my family. The sweet, caramelized onions paired with savory ground beef and the richness of Swiss cheese created a dish that was both comforting and delicious. The creamy rice absorbs all the flavors, and the crispy French fried onions on top add the perfect finishing touch. My kids loved the combination of flavors, and my husband couldn’t stop asking for seconds! This casserole is easy to make, filling, and perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. Whether you’re looking for something hearty to feed the family or want to impress guests with a tasty, homemade meal, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup French fried onions (for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or use cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown. Be patient with this step; the slow cooking of the onions brings out their natural sweetness.
3. Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Break it apart using a spatula, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent the casserole from being greasy.
4. Season the Beef and Onion Mixture: Once the beef is cooked, season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
5. Combine with Rice and Broth: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with uncooked rice and beef broth. Mix thoroughly so that the rice is evenly coated with the beef mixture.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the casserole moist during baking.
7. Bake Covered: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the rice to cook and absorb all the flavors from the beef broth and seasonings.
8. Add Swiss Cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let it Rest: Once the casserole is done, let it sit for about 5 minutes to firm up before serving.
10. Top with French Fried Onions and Parsley: Just before serving, sprinkle the French fried onions on top for some extra crunch and flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: 450 kcal (approximately)
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 25g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Main Course: Serve this casserole as a main dish for a comforting family dinner, perfect for chilly evenings.
• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• For a Special Occasion: This dish is perfect for a potluck or holiday gathering, as it’s easy to prepare in advance and always a crowd-pleaser.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread on the side for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• For Leftovers: This casserole makes excellent leftovers, and the flavors often improve after sitting for a day.

Additional Tips

1. Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, try adding vegetables such as peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the casserole before baking.
2. Make it Spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes to the beef mixture if you like a bit of heat.
3. Cheese Variations: Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella to create different flavor profiles.
4. Slow Cooker Option: You can prepare this casserole in a slow cooker by combining the ingredients and cooking on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
5. Use Brown Rice: For a healthier version, substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice, though it may take a bit longer to cook.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute, such as lentils or crumbled tofu, to create a vegetarian version of the casserole.
• Cheesy Mushroom Casserole: Add sautéed mushrooms to the beef and onion mixture for a rich, earthy flavor.
• BBQ Ground Beef Casserole: Mix in some BBQ sauce with the beef for a tangy twist.
• Buffalo Style: Add some buffalo sauce to the beef for a spicy, tangy flavor that pairs well with the cheese and fried onions.
• Chicken Variation: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version of the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Roasted Vegetables: Serve this casserole with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini, to add a healthy element to the meal.
• For a Lighter Meal: Pair it with a low-calorie soup like a vegetable or tomato soup to balance the richness of the casserole.
• For an Appetizer: Serve it in smaller portions as an appetizer at a holiday party or family gathering.
• With a Cheese Plate: Complement the casserole with a simple cheese plate featuring sharp cheeses and some fresh fruit.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before storing in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warm.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat for this casserole?
   Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted for ground beef for a lighter option.
2. Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice?
   While instant rice can be used, it may not absorb the flavors as well as long-grain rice.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I add other spices to the dish?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like paprika, rosemary, or garlic powder for more depth of flavor.
5. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the breadcrumbs entirely and add more cheese on top.
6. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?
   Yes, you can add more cheese or a mix of different cheeses for a cheesier casserole.
7. How can I make this casserole more creamy?
   For a creamier texture, you can mix in some cream cheese or sour cream with the beef mixture.
8. Can I use beef bouillon instead of beef broth?
   Yes, you can use beef bouillon cubes or granules dissolved in water as a substitute for beef broth.
9. Can I use a different kind of cheese on top?
   Yes, mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses can be used for a different flavor.
10. How long can I store leftovers?
    Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice

Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that combines hearty beef, creamy rice, and the richness of melted Swiss cheese. With the sweetness of caramelized onions and the crispy French fried onions topping, it’s a meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this casserole will surely satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

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