I absolutely adore this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole! It’s one of those cozy dishes that brings back wonderful memories of family dinners when I was growing up. There’s something so comforting about digging into a cheesy, hearty casserole after a long day. Plus, the aroma of caramelized onions wafting through the house is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
What I love about this casserole is how simple it is yet so packed with flavor. It’s a dish that you can throw together pretty quickly, but it tastes like you’ve spent hours slaving away in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you have company over and want to impress them with something delicious! So grab your apron, and let’s get started on this satisfying casserole that will soon become a staple in your meal rotation.
What’s in French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this culinary delight:
Ground Beef: The star of this dish! I typically go for lean ground beef to keep things lighter. You can also use turkey or chicken if you want a healthier spin.
French Onion Soup: This is the secret weapon for so much flavor. I usually opt for a good-quality can or even make my own if I have the time. Either way, it’s rich and savory!
Rice: Long grain white rice works perfectly here. It absorbs all the delicious juices from the beef and onion soup, turning every bite into a flavor bomb.
Onions: They’re essential for that sweet, caramelized depth. I like using yellow onions for their well-balanced flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I can’t resist a cheesy topping! Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Herbs and Spices: A sprinkle of garlic powder, salt, and pepper enhances everything beautifully.
Is French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about whether this casserole will help keep those New Year resolutions or make you question your life choices.
Ground Beef: It’s a great protein source, but if you’re watching your fat intake, feel free to use lean ground beef or substitute it with turkey.
French Onion Soup: Depending on the brand you choose, it can be high in sodium. Look for low-sodium options or make your own for more control over the ingredients.
Rice: This will give you sustained energy, but if you’re looking to lower carbs, you could swap it out for cauliflower rice.
Overall, while this casserole is definitely comfort food, moderation is key since it can be higher in calories from the cheese and ground beef. Enjoying it as an occasional treat is what I recommend, because it’s scrumptious comfort food after all!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) French Onion Soup
– 1 cup Long Grain White Rice (uncooked)
– 1 large Onion (sliced)
– 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or your cheese of choice)
– 1 tsp Garlic Powder
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Serves: 4-6
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook until they’re golden brown and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onions with the French onion soup, uncooked rice, and garlic powder. Stir it all together until everything is well mixed.
5. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Delicious Tips for Your Casserole Adventure!
– Feel free to add some veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix for extra nutrition and flavor!
– If you love herbs, a bit of thyme or rosemary can elevate the casserole to gourmet status.
– This casserole is also freezer-friendly! Just cool it completely and store it in an airtight container for up to two months.
I hope you give this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole a try—it’s bound to delight your taste buds and keep you cozy during the cooler months. Let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
