This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of savory flavors and comforting textures. With tender ground beef, aromatic French onion soup, and fluffy rice, this dish promises to be a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a hearty meal that will leave everyone satisfied.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this casserole for its simplicity and rich flavor. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines the classic taste of French onion soup with the heartiness of ground beef and rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The addition of butter creates a creamy texture, while the beef consomme enhances the overall taste, making every bite a comforting experience. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices or toppings, allowing you to make it your own!
Introduction
Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, and this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole takes the cake! Combining the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with the heartiness of ground beef and rice, this dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks. In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps to create this delectable dish, share some tips for success, and provide nutritional information to help you make informed choices.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
- ½ to 1 tsp garlic salt, or to taste
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) beef consomme
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) French onion soup
- 180ml (¾ cup) water
- 2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 170g (¾ cup) butter, sliced (1 ½ sticks)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with garlic salt until browned and cooked through, breaking it into crumbles. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the beef is cooked thoroughly to avoid any food safety issues.
Step 3: Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the prepared baking dish. This will serve as the base for your casserole.
Step 4: Layer the cooked ground beef over the rice. Then, pour in the beef consomme, French onion soup, and water. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Place the sliced butter on top of the mixture. This will melt during baking, adding richness and flavor to the casserole.
Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This initial baking time allows the rice to absorb the flavors and cook through.
Step 7: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling. The uncovered baking time will give your dish a lovely, slightly crispy top.
Step 8: Once done, fluff the casserole with a fork before serving. This will help to separate the rice and distribute the flavors evenly.
Serving Suggestions:
This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience by serving it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole. Additionally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated cheese just before serving can add a touch of color and extra flavor.
Tips:
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: For added flavor, consider sprinkling some grated cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère would work wonderfully!
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add some sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the ground beef for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 480
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 850mg
Conclusion
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a fantastic recipe that brings together the comforting flavors of French onion soup and the heartiness of ground beef and rice. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave something warm and filling. With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy making it, sharing it, and, most importantly, savoring every bite!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. However, keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so you may need to adjust the liquid and baking time accordingly. - What if I don’t have beef consomme?
If you don’t have beef consomme, you can use beef broth or stock as a substitute. The flavor may be slightly less rich, but it will still work well in the recipe. - Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef consomme. Additionally, you can add more vegetables to enhance the dish. - How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.