Are you ready to take your taste buds on a savory journey to the heart of French cuisine? Look no further than this delectable French Onion Beef Rice Casserole! With its rich flavors of caramelized onions, hearty ground beef, and gooey mozzarella cheese, this comforting dish is the perfect solution for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. In just under an hour, you can whip up a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a warm, cheesy masterpiece that’s bound to become a new favorite at your dinner table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can French onion soup
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion. Sauté the onions for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become translucent and start to caramelize, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- While the onions are cooking, in another pan, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat. Break the meat apart with a spatula as it cooks, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and add the sautéed onions to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir to combine the flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef and onion mixture with 2 cups of cooked rice and 1 can of French onion soup. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole, ensuring an even layer for a cheesy finish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning during the initial cooking phase.
- Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set a bit.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious French Onion Beef Rice Casserole!
Tips
- Sauté the Onions for Depth: Take your time when sautéing the onions. Allow them to caramelize properly for that rich, sweet flavor that defines French onion dishes. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t burn!
- Season Your Beef: Don’t forget to season your ground beef while it cooks. A little salt and pepper can go a long way in enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole.
- Use Leftover Rice: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. If you have some on hand, it will save you time and add even more flavor to the dish.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is delicious, feel free to mix it up! Adding a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or Swiss can elevate the dish and give it an authentic French flair.
- Cover for Perfect Baking: Covering the casserole with aluminum foil during the first half of baking helps to steam the dish, ensuring it stays moist and the cheese doesn’t burn. Remove the foil later for that perfect golden crust!
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of your dish.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this French Onion Beef Rice Casserole, and watch as it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
