Description
Warm up your dinner table with this comforting French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Packed with savory ground beef, caramelized onions, creamy Swiss cheese, and a crispy French fried onion topping, this casserole brings a satisfying, hearty meal to your table. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s a dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup French fried onions
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven
- Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Caramelize the Onions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized. Set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef
- In the same skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Combine the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked ground beef, caramelized onions, uncooked rice, and beef broth. Stir until evenly combined.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake
- Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle Swiss cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add the Final Touches
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Top with French fried onions and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Slice into portions and serve warm. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh onions and high-quality beef broth for the best flavor.
- Don’t Skip Caramelizing the Onions: This step enhances the sweetness and savory flavor of the dish.
- Cover the Dish: Covering the casserole while baking helps the rice absorb all the liquid and cook properly.
- Adjust to Your Preferences: Add vegetables like mushrooms or swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère for a more robust flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American