Name: French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 3 cups cooked white or brown rice; 1 can (10.5 ounces) French onion soup; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that brings together deep savory flavors with minimal fuss? This French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the weeknight hero you’ve been craving. It blends hearty ground beef, tender rice, and sweet caramelized onions with melted cheese to create a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a comforting make-ahead meal.

Every bite captures the essence of French onion soup with the added comfort of a baked casserole. The golden, bubbly cheese topping combined with the meaty, rice-filled layers makes this a serious contender for your favorite comfort food. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients and is simple enough even on your busiest weeknight.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delicious layers of this casserole, let’s talk prep and the kitchen tools that’ll make it seamless:

1. Large Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions. A non-stick or cast iron skillet ensures even cooking and great caramelization.

2. Medium Saucepan (optional): If you’re using uncooked rice, pre-cook it here before adding it to the casserole. Precooked or leftover rice also works.

3. Mixing Bowl: For combining beef, rice, soup mix, and cheese into a harmonious blend before baking.

4. 9×13 Baking Dish: A glass or ceramic baking dish helps with even heat distribution, ensuring a bubbling golden crust on top.

5. Foil and Oven Mitts: Use foil to cover the casserole if needed to avoid over-browning. Always use mitts when handling the hot dish.

Prep tip: Get your ingredients chopped, measured, and set out before you start cooking. This will streamline the process and let you focus on building layers of flavor.

Ingredients for the French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole brings something essential to the table, from texture to rich, deep flavor:

Ground Beef: The hearty base of the casserole, offering savory flavor and protein.
White or Brown Rice (cooked): Adds bulk and comfort to the dish, soaking up the savory juices beautifully.

French Onion Soup (canned or homemade): The star flavor component, infusing the dish with rich oniony goodness.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds a creamy, velvety texture that balances the saltiness of the onion soup.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully over the casserole, giving a gooey, satisfying cheese pull.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharpness and a golden crust when baked.
Yellow Onion (thinly sliced): Boosts the French onion flavor and adds subtle sweetness as it bakes.
Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all the other ingredients.

Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): For a touch of freshness and color on top.

How To Make the French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown and Season the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Using the same skillet, add thinly sliced onions. Sauté over medium-low heat until golden and soft, about 10-12 minutes. This deepens the sweet onion flavor.

Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked rice, browned beef, caramelized onions, French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, and half of both cheeses. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden. Garnish with chopped parsley just before serving, if using.

Best Way to Serve and Store French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Serve this casserole hot out of the oven while the cheese is still melty and golden. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A warm piece of crusty bread also complements the rich flavors nicely.

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm larger portions in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

For freezing, portion into airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare the entire casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or even chicken makes a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter version.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice or brown rice both work well. Make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Is it okay to skip the cream of mushroom soup?

If you’re not a fan, you can swap it with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. Even sour cream works in a pinch for creaminess.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat or lentils, and ensure your soups are vegetarian-friendly.

How do I get that golden cheesy top?

For a beautifully browned top, bake uncovered and finish with a few minutes under the broiler. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Want More Casserole Ideas with Comfort in Every Bite?

If this French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole won you over, don’t miss out on these other delicious creations from Life With Olivia:

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a creamy and cheesy twist on a classic.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole that lives up to its rich, comforting name.

Mexican Cornbread Casserole if you’re craving bold Tex-Mex flavor.
Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole for a kid-approved, cheesy delight.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole when you want something cozy and nostalgic.

Save This Recipe for Later

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And let me know in the comments how your casserole turned out! Did you stick with beef or swap in something else? Did you add extra cheese or top it with crispy onions?

I love seeing how you personalize these recipes—your tips help others too. Questions? I’ve got answers. Let’s make dinnertime easier, together.

French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A cozy, family-friendly casserole that combines the savory flavor of French onion soup with hearty ground beef, tender rice, and melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or when you need a dish to satisfy everyone at the table.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 10–12 minutes, until caramelized and soft.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, browned beef, caramelized onions, French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, and half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Stir well.

4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Top with the remaining cheeses.

5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.