French Onion Ground Beef Casserole

I created this French onion ground beef casserole on a chilly evening when I was craving something cozy and rich but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen so I grabbed some ground beef onions cheese and rice then layered them into a casserole dish and hoped it would hit the spot and when I pulled it out of the oven bubbling golden and savory I knew I had something special

Ever since then it’s been my comfort food go-to because it’s hearty filling and full of that deep caramelized onion flavor that makes everything taste like home and whether I’m cooking for my family or dropping off a meal for a friend this casserole always gets rave reviews and empty plates

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground beef – The hearty base of the casserole that brings richness and depth
• Yellow onion – Caramelized for that signature French onion flavor
• Cooked rice – Helps make the dish filling and soaks up all the savory sauce
• Cream of mushroom soup – Adds creaminess and umami to the mix
• Sour cream – Brings tang and smooth texture
• Shredded cheese – I use cheddar and mozzarella for melt and flavor
• Butter – For sautéing the onions until soft and golden
• Garlic powder – Adds warmth and subtle depth
• Salt and pepper – Balances and enhances every bite
• Fresh parsley – A fresh pop to brighten the top

Tools You’ll Need

• Skillet – To brown the beef and caramelize the onions
• Saucepan – For cooking or reheating the rice if not already prepared
• Mixing bowl – To combine the creamy ingredients before baking
• 9×13 baking dish – Perfect for layering and evenly baking the casserole
• Wooden spoon – For stirring everything together easily
• Cheese grater – If you’re shredding cheese fresh for that perfect melt

Instructions

Step 1

I start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat seasoning it with salt pepper and garlic powder as it cooks then I drain any excess grease

Step 2

In the same skillet I melt some butter and sauté thinly sliced onions until they’re soft golden and deeply caramelized which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes

Step 3

While the onions are cooking I prepare the cooked rice or reheat leftovers if I already have it ready

Step 4

In a large mixing bowl I stir together the cooked rice cream of mushroom soup sour cream half the shredded cheese and the cooked ground beef until everything is well combined

Step 5

I spoon the mixture into a greased baking dish then spread the caramelized onions evenly over the top

Step 6

I sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over everything and bake the casserole at 350°F for about 25 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden on top

Step 7

Once it’s out of the oven I let it rest for a few minutes then I top it with fresh chopped parsley before serving

Tips

If you want even deeper flavor try using French onion soup mix in place of garlic powder

Leftover rice works great in this dish and saves time

For a lighter version I’ve used Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and it still turns out delicious

You can assemble this ahead and refrigerate then just bake when ready to serve

Ways to Serve

I love pairing this with a simple green salad or roasted green beans to balance the richness

It also goes really well with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread

For leftovers I scoop some into a tortilla and make a cheesy beef wrap for lunch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze French onion ground beef casserole?

Yes just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and freeze before baking or freeze leftovers for easy meals

Can I make French onion ground beef casserole ahead of time?

Definitely just store it covered in the fridge and bake when ready to eat

What type of cheese is best for French onion ground beef casserole?

I like a mix of cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for melt but any good melting cheese will work

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this French onion ground beef casserole a try! It’s rich comforting and packed with flavor and it’s always a winner in my house. Let me know how you make it your own and be sure to save this one for your next cozy dinner night

Happy Cooking!

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