French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A comforting blend of savory ground beef, caramelized onions, and creamy cheese layered over fluffy rice, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 cup rice Long-grain or jasmine rice works best.
- 2 large onions, caramelized For maximum flavor, take your time caramelizing them.
- 2 cups beef broth Homemade or store-bought; low-sodium versions are preferable.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or Gruyère) Choose your favorite for best results.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing your onions and beef.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds depth to your dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Enhances the onion flavors.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for enhancing the flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the onions in thin rings to make caramelizing easier.
- Measure out the rice, cheese, and seasonings so everything is ready to go.
Cooking the Onions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and caramelized, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Browning the Beef
- Once the onions are nicely caramelized, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Ensure it’s well mixed, letting the seasonings coat the beef thoroughly.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the uncooked rice and pour in the beef broth.
- Stir the mixture well to ensure the rice is fully incorporated and the broth is evenly distributed.
Transfer and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Spread it evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Top the mixture with shredded cheese, covering it generously.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
Finishing Touches
- After 25-30 minutes, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving
- Scoop out generous portions, grab a fork, and enjoy every mouthful of this delightful casserole.
Notes
This casserole is great for meal prep; it stores well and can be frozen for up to three months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.