Description
Hearty French onion ground beef and rice casserole delivers comfort with classic French flavors in one satisfying dish. Savory beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese create a delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Liquid and Grains:
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup French onion soup (canned or homemade)
Cooking and Topping:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, ensuring no pink remains. Eliminate excess grease thoroughly.
- Caramelize onions in the same skillet, stirring consistently for 6-7 minutes until golden and translucent. Incorporate minced garlic and sauté for an additional 60 seconds.
- Warm oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer beef and onion mixture into a large casserole dish, blending with uncooked rice, beef broth, French onion soup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, pepper, and salt. Mix ingredients comprehensively.
- Seal casserole dish with aluminum foil, creating a tight cover to retain moisture. Bake for 35-40 minutes, allowing rice to absorb liquids and become tender.
- Remove foil, distribute shredded cheese evenly across the surface. Return to oven for 10-12 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops a golden, slightly crispy texture.
- Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for vibrant color and enhanced flavor. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Maximize onion flavor by caramelizing them slowly over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and develop rich, sweet undertones.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for lighter, healthier protein options that maintain the dish’s hearty texture.
- Control sodium levels by using low-sodium beef broth and French onion soup, allowing you to adjust seasoning without overwhelming saltiness.
- Enhance meal prep efficiency by preparing caramelized onions and browning meat in advance, reducing total cooking time and simplifying the recipe process.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 462 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg