A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the classic flavors of French onion soup with ground beef and rice, all baked into a comforting, cheesy dish. This is the perfect meal for a cozy night in, and it’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 oz package onion soup mix
- 2 cups instant white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
- Optional: fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat until the ground beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Stir in the salt, pepper, and onion soup mix into the beef and onion mixture. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 4: Spread the uncooked instant white rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure the rice is in a single layer for even cooking.
Step 5: Layer the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the rice in the baking dish. Spread it out to cover the rice completely.
Step 6: Pour the beef broth evenly over the ground beef layer. Ensure that the liquid covers the rice; this is essential for cooking the rice properly.
Step 7: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. The foil helps to steam the rice and cook it through.
Step 8: Remove the foil from the baking dish. Spread the sour cream evenly over the ground beef layer.
Step 9: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sour cream layer. Top with the crispy fried onions.
Step 10: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Step 11: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a winner for several reasons:
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a convenient meal for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of savory beef, sweet onions, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or spices.
DRINK Rating:
Pairing:
- Red Wine (3/5): A medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Beaujolais, can complement the savory flavors of the casserole.
- Beer (4/5): A lager or pale ale would be a refreshing accompaniment.
- Non-Alcoholic (5/5): Iced tea or sparkling water with a lemon wedge would also pair well.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main course.
- Pair with a simple side salad to add some freshness to the meal.
- Add a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a complete dinner.
Tips:
- Caramelize the Onions: For a deeper, more complex flavor, caramelize the diced onions before adding them to the ground beef. Cook them slowly over low heat until they are golden brown and sweet.
- Ensure Rice is Covered: Make sure the beef broth adequately covers the rice to ensure it cooks properly. If necessary, add a little more broth.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a crispier topping, broil the casserole on low for the last minute or two of baking, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
- Use Different Cheese: Feel free to substitute the mozzarella cheese with other cheeses like Gruyere, Swiss, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the ground beef mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes)
- Calories: 450-550 per serving (estimated)
- Protein: 30-35g per serving (estimated)
- Sodium: 700-900mg per serving (estimated)
Conclusion:
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- While you can use brown rice, keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You may need to adjust the baking time and add more beef broth to ensure the rice is fully cooked. Instant white rice is recommended for its convenience and consistent results.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the crispy fried onions just before baking to prevent them from getting soggy. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Freezing is not recommended as the sour cream and rice may change texture when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this casserole fresh.
- Can I use a different type of ground meat?
- Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option. The cooking time and instructions remain the same.
- What can I do if I don’t have onion soup mix?
- If you don’t have onion soup mix, you can make your own by combining beef bouillon granules, dried minced onion, onion powder, and a pinch of sugar. Adjust the amounts to taste, aiming for a savory, onion-forward flavor.
