French Onion Beef and Rice Casserole – Creamy, Hearty Comfort

This French Onion Beef and Rice Casserole is a cozy, one-dish meal that combines savory caramelized onions, tender ground beef, and fluffy rice, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this casserole delivers comfort food in every bite. Easy to prepare and satisfying, it’s ideal for anyone craving a warm, cheesy, flavorful dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty, satisfying one-dish meal
• Savory French onion flavor with tender beef
• Creamy texture from the cheese and rice
• Quick and easy to prepare on weeknights
• Perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping
• Can be customized with extra vegetables or toppings

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup French fried onions or extra shredded cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook 8–10 minutes until caramelized.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
4. Stir in garlic, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper; cook 1–2 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and half of the shredded cheese.
6. Add the beef and onion mixture; mix until well combined.
7. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
8. Sprinkle remaining cheese and optional French fried onions on top.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
10. Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, use caramelized shallots instead of onions.
• Substitute brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
• Add vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas.
• Use a mix of cheeses like Swiss and mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• Prepare ahead and refrigerate; bake directly from chilled for convenience.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze uncooked casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Pair with a crusty bread or garlic bread for a hearty meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or extra caramelized onions on top.
• Great for potlucks, meal prep, or cozy family dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well; adjust seasonings for flavor.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that beef broth is gluten-free. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.

How do I keep the cheese from browning too much?

Cover the casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then uncover for the last 5–10 minutes to melt the cheese.

Ready to Make It?

This French Onion Beef and Rice Casserole is a cozy, creamy, and hearty dinner perfect for weeknights, family meals, or meal prep. With layers of savory beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese, it’s a dish everyone will love.

You Might Also Like

• Vanilla Sheet Cake – Soft, buttery vanilla cake perfect for any celebration.
• Chicken Zucchini Bake – Healthy, flavorful casserole with tender chicken and vegetables.
• Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf – Juicy, cheesy meatloaf with a crisp topping.
• Chocolate Raspberry Crinkles – Soft chocolate cookies with raspberry flavor.

Print