Description

This Irresistibly Cheesy French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole combines savory browned ground beef with flavorful French onion soup, creamy sour cream, and melty mozzarella cheese baked to bubbly perfection. Perfectly comforting and easy to prepare, this hearty casserole makes for a delicious family dinner that highlights classic flavors in a satisfying one-dish meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 pound Ground Beef (Lean ground beef recommended)
3 cups Cooked White Rice (Day-old rice absorbs flavors better)
1 can Condensed French Onion Soup (Don’t substitute with regular soup)
1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative)
2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Gruyère can be used for a gourmet twist)

Seasonings & Others

2 tablespoons Butter (Can use olive oil as a healthier substitute)
1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Fresh onions can be a more robust alternative)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Using fresh garlic elevates the dish)
Salt & Pepper (Adjust to taste preference)
Chopped Parsley (Adds a pop of color and freshness)

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Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to break up the meat for even browning. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
Season the Meat: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste over the browned beef. Mix thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the spices. Cook for another minute while stirring, then remove from heat.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed beef mixture with 3 cups cooked white rice, 1 can condensed French onion soup, and 1 cup sour cream. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the beef and rice mixture, ensuring full coverage.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving to add freshness and color.

Notes

Using day-old cooked rice helps to absorb flavors better and prevents the casserole from becoming mushy.
Lean ground beef is recommended to reduce excess fat and create a healthier dish.
For a lighter alternative, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
Fresh garlic and onions can be used instead of powders for more robust flavor.
Gruyère cheese can replace mozzarella for a more gourmet taste.
Butter can be swapped with olive oil for a healthier fat option.
Letting the casserole rest a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.