French Onion Ground Beef

This French Onion Ground Beef casserole transforms simple pantry staples into a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners. The mix of beef, rice, and rich onion soup creates a satisfying dish that melds savory and hearty notes in every bite.

I remember making this on a busy weeknight and being amazed at how the house filled with the aroma of caramelized onions and rich broth. It quickly became a family favorite that everyone asks for regularly.

Ingredients

• One pound of lean ground beef ensures a hearty protein base without excess fat
• Garlic salt adds a subtle kick and depth adjust to your preference
• Two 10.5-ounce cans of beef consommé provide rich meaty flavor essential for broth depth choose a quality brand for best results
• Two 10.5-ounce cans of French onion soup bring that iconic sweet and savory onion character
• Three quarters cup of water balances the liquid and moisture for the rice
• Two cups of uncooked long grain white rice absorb all flavors while staying fluffy
• Three quarters cup of butter cut into slices melts throughout the bake creating a luscious finish use unsalted butter if your consommé is salty

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat add the lean ground beef along with your preferred amount of garlic salt. Break the beef apart and cook thoroughly until it turns brown with no pink remaining. This step builds your flavor foundation with caramelized meat juices.

Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the dish then scatter the cooked beef on top. Pour in both cans of French onion soup both cans of beef consommé and the water. Stir gently until the mixture looks uniform.

Add Butter and Bake Covered:

Place butter slices evenly across the surface of the casserole mixture. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the oven for thirty minutes. This allows the rice to start absorbing all the rich flavors.

Finish Baking Uncovered:

Remove the foil carefully and bake uncovered for another thirty minutes. You can add a topping like shredded cheese or crispy fried onions now if you want extra texture. The uncovered bake helps brown and slightly crisp the surface.

Fluff and Serve:

Once out of the oven fluff the rice and beef mixture gently with a fork. Serve warm right from the dish for a cozy fulfilling meal.

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Storage Tips

Cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. The casserole keeps well for up to four days in the refrigerator. To reheat cover and warm in the oven at a low temperature to keep the rice tender and moist.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Chicken broth can replace beef consommé but expect a milder flavor. Brown rice takes longer to cook so increase liquid slightly and bake longer if you prefer it.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad to balance richness. A simple steamed vegetable like green beans or broccoli adds fresh crunch and color on the plate.

Cultural Context

French onion soup is a classic American adaptation of a French staple dish. Incorporating it into casseroles is a homey way to enjoy the rich flavors with less fuss and more family-friendly appeal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of beef works best for this dish?

Lean ground beef is preferred to keep the casserole rich yet not overly greasy, ensuring a balanced texture.

→ Can I use fresh onions instead of canned soup?

While fresh onions add flavor, the canned French onion soup provides a concentrated depth and seasoning that’s key to the dish’s signature taste.

→ How should I adjust cooking time if doubling the servings?

For larger quantities, increase baking time slightly and ensure the casserole is heated evenly by covering with foil during the initial phase.

→ Is it possible to add a crunchy topping on this dish?

Yes, adding breadcrumbs or grated cheese during the final bake creates a crispy, golden crust that enhances texture.

→ What side dishes complement this casserole well?

Fresh steamed vegetables or a simple green salad balance the richness and add freshness to the meal.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

It can be assembled in advance and stored covered in the fridge. Bake fresh before serving to maintain texture and flavor.