French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

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When comfort food cravings hit, nothing satisfies quite like this French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole. A savory, cheesy, and hearty dish layered with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, rich French onion flavor, and melted cheese—all baked into one golden, bubbling casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or planning for leftovers, this casserole brings dinner-time joy with minimal effort.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends, this dish is the definition of a crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those meals you can throw together with pantry staples and still get big flavor. French onion soup mix brings that deep umami hit while melty cheese and beef keep it hearty and satisfying. It’s also ideal for meal prep or sharing at potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

• Easy to make with minimal prep and hands-off baking time.
• Family-friendly and kid-approved.
• One-dish meal that doesn’t require sides.
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly for busy schedules.
• Comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor.

Can I Use Fresh Onions Instead of Soup Mix?

Yes, but with a twist. The French onion soup mix is what gives this dish its deep, caramelized onion flavor quickly. If using fresh onions, sauté them until golden brown and add beef bouillon or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the taste. Just know that using the mix is the key to the ultra-savory, nostalgic taste this dish is loved for.

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Ingredients for the French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Every component plays a comforting, flavorful role in this warm and cheesy bake:

• Ground Beef: Lean or regular—provides richness and heartiness.
• White Rice: Uncooked, long-grain rice cooks up tender right in the dish.
• French Onion Soup Mix: Adds intense flavor without extra work.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the umami flavor and helps cook the rice evenly.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds creaminess and binds everything together.
• Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella or a mix with cheddar for gooey, golden topping.
• Butter (optional): Dot on top before baking for richness.
• Chopped Parsley: For a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, uncooked rice, French onion soup mix, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and top with shredded cheese. Add a few pats of butter if desired for extra richness.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-55 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes to melt and brown the cheese.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot straight from the oven.

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How to Serve and Store French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This casserole feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for families or meal prepping. Serve it hot out of the oven for maximum cheesy goodness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven. It also freezes beautifully—wrap tightly and store up to 2 months.

What to Serve With French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

Garlic Roasted Green Beans

Their crisp-tender texture and bright flavor balance the richness of the casserole.

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness.

Simple Garden Salad

Add crunch and freshness with romaine, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Roasted Carrots

A touch of sweetness complements the savory beef and onion flavors.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Enhance the umami profile and tie in with the cream of mushroom base.

Pickled Beets or Onions

For a tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

Apple Slaw

Sweet, crisp, and refreshing—a fun twist for a side.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this comforting casserole, you’ll want to check out these other flavorful favorites:

• Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
• Spaghetti Squash Casserole
• Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
• Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the cheese? Did you add mushrooms or swap the meat?

I love seeing your twists on these recipes! Questions welcome—let’s make dinnertime delicious together.

Explore more everyday comfort meals and creative twists on Nora Nosh Recipes over on Pinterest!

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