Name: French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder Salt and pepper to taste 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked; 10.5 oz can French onion soup; 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup; 1.5 cups beef broth 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

When comfort food calls, few dishes hit the spot like this French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole. It’s cozy, satisfying, and brings together tender beef, caramelized onions, creamy rice, and melty cheese in one warm, bubbling dish. Think of it as a weeknight wonder that transforms simple pantry staples into something spectacular.

This casserole is ideal for busy evenings, potlucks, or whenever you want a make-ahead meal that keeps well. It blends the rich, savory flavor of French onion soup with the heartiness of beef and rice, making it a crowd-pleaser that leaves no leftovers. Plus, it only takes a few steps to prep and bakes up into golden, cheesy perfection.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

Long-grain white rice works best for this casserole because it cooks up fluffy and doesn’t get mushy. You can also use jasmine rice or basmati for added fragrance. If you prefer brown rice, increase the cooking time slightly and make sure your liquid ratio is spot on. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice—they can break down too much in the oven.

Ingredients for the French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole (1)

How To Make the French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the ground beef until fully browned. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook on medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes until soft and golden brown. Stir often to prevent burning.

Step 3: Combine and Layer

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, stir together uncooked rice, French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Fold in the cooked ground beef and caramelized onions.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Uncover, top with mozzarella and Swiss or Gruyère cheese. Return to oven and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Serving and Storing This Cozy Casserole

Serve this casserole hot from the oven alongside a crisp green salad or roasted veggies. It pairs well with a chilled glass of white wine or a warm roll for soaking up that savory sauce.

Leftovers store beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Can I substitute the soup?

Yes! Cream of mushroom can be swapped for cream of celery or cream of chicken. Homemade soup also works.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Swiss brings that classic French onion flavor, but Gruyère is even better if you want a more elevated touch. Mozzarella adds great meltiness.

Can I use brown rice?

You can, but it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly to avoid undercooked rice.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Bake it first, let it cool, then freeze in portions or whole. It’s a great meal-prep option.

What veggies can I add?

Sautéed mushrooms, peas, or even spinach would mix in nicely without overpowering the flavors.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you loved this comforting French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you’ll want to explore more hearty, delicious dinners:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a skillet-style comfort dinner.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta if you’re in the mood for creamy, dreamy pasta.
Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole for a tangy twist on beef and noodles.
Taco Spaghetti Casserole if you’re craving something with a Tex-Mex kick.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you want cheesy and elegant all in one.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest casserole board for those cozy dinner nights.

And let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you go with Gruyère or stick with Swiss? Did you sneak in any extra veggies?

I love hearing how these dishes evolve in your kitchen. Drop your tips, swaps, or questions below—we’re all in this casserole journey together!

French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining caramelized onions, seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese into one satisfying bake. It’s the kind of hearty, family-style meal you’ll come back to again and again.

Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, caramelize the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring often.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix uncooked rice, French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Fold in cooked beef and onions.

4. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

5. Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Swiss or Gruyère cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 10–15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with herbs if desired.