Name: French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 oz onion soup mix; 2 cups instant white rice, uncooked; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup crispy fried onions; fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 34 reviews

If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the deep, savory flavors of classic French onion soup with the satisfying texture of ground beef and fluffy rice, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s simple to prepare, packed with bold flavor, and topped with crispy fried onions and melted mozzarella for that irresistible finishing touch. Trust me, once you try this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become one of your weeknight favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black frying pan with two handles sits on a black stove with white rings. Inside the pan, there is a layer of raw red ground meat at the bottom, topped with a thick layer of chopped white onions. A wooden spatula rests inside the pan with the handle leaning to the right. The surface beneath the stove is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but essential for making your casserole rich, flavorful, and comforting. Each component plays a key role: from the lean ground beef that provides hearty protein, to the instant rice that cooks perfectly in the casserole, and the crispy fried onions that add irresistible texture and crunch.

Fresh chopped parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish when sprinkled on top.
1 lb lean ground beef: The protein base that cooks up juicy and flavorful.
1 medium yellow onion, diced: Provides natural sweetness and aroma that forms the dish’s savory foundation.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle edge of spice for balance.
1 oz onion soup mix: This mix brings in the iconic French onion soup essence with its blend of dried onions, herbs, and seasonings.
2 cups instant white rice, uncooked: Cooks alongside the beef for a tender, fluffy texture that soaks up all the delicious broth.
2 cups beef broth: Adds depth of flavor and keeps the casserole moist during baking.
1 cup sour cream: Provides creamy tanginess that lightens and enriches the casserole’s middle layer.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for gooey, golden goodness.
1 cup crispy fried onions: The perfect crunchy topping to finish the casserole with signature French onion flair.

How to Make French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Ground Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get everything ready for baking. Then, place the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As the beef begins to brown, break it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking and to achieve a nice crumbly texture that will blend well in the casserole.

Step 2: Add the Onions and Seasonings

Once the beef starts to brown, toss in the diced yellow onion. Stir everything thoroughly and cook until the ground beef is fully browned and the onions become soft and fragrant. Next, sprinkle the salt, pepper, and the onion soup mix over the meat and onions, stirring well to coat every morsel in that unmistakable French onion flavor. When done, remove the skillet from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Layers

Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking dish by lightly spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then pour the uncooked instant rice into the bottom, spreading it out evenly: this is your hearty base that will soak up all the savory juices. Spoon the cooked ground beef and onion mixture on top of the rice in an even layer.

Step 4: Add Broth and Bake Covered

Pour the beef broth evenly over the beef and rice layers, which will help cook the rice as the casserole bakes. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake, covered, for 40 minutes, allowing the rice to soften and soak in all those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Layer Sour Cream, Cheese, and Crispy Onions

After baking, carefully remove the foil and spread the sour cream evenly over the beef and rice. This creamy layer adds richness and counterbalances the savory meat. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top, followed by the crispy fried onions for that signature French onion crunch.

Step 6: Final Bake and Rest

Return the casserole to the oven uncovered, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese finishes melting and turns golden and bubbly. Once it comes out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes—this helps the casserole set slightly and makes it easier to serve. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top to add a touch of color and freshness before serving.

How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

A black plate holds a single serving of a layered casserole dish, starting with a base layer of light brown rice mixed with small bits of cooked ground meat. On top of this, there is a layer of melted white cheese scattered unevenly, partially covering the rice and meat. Bright orange crunchy pieces, likely chips or crisps, are spread across the cheese, adding a rough texture and vibrant color contrast. Small green herb bits are sprinkled on top as garnish. In the background, a clear glass baking dish shows the rest of the casserole with the same layers visible, resting on a white marbled surface covered with a white and gray striped cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

If you want to elevate your French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe even further, consider garnishing with extra fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an added savory punch. A few thinly sliced green onions can also add a lovely pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

This casserole works beautifully as a main dish. Pair it with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or steamed seasonal veggies such as broccoli or green beans. A crusty baguette or garlic bread on the side can help mop up any of those delicious cheesy juices leftover on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions of this casserole in oven-safe ramekins. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions last and broil briefly to achieve a beautifully browned, crispy topping on each serving. This makes a charming presentation for dinner guests or family meals where each person can enjoy their own delightful personal casserole.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe will keep very well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its flavor and moisture. When you’re ready, leftovers make a quick and filling meal that tastes almost as good as freshly baked.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this casserole if you want to make it in advance or save portions for later. Cool it completely, then wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. Frozen casseroles are best eaten within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole dish covered with foil in a 350 degree oven until heated through. Adding a few extra crispy fried onions on top before serving can refresh the crunch and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of instant white rice?

You can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth amount and baking time accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free onion soup mix and gluten-free crispy fried onions to keep all the flavors safe for gluten-sensitive diets. Double-check all ingredient labels to avoid hidden gluten.

Can I swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are lighter options that still work well with the French onion flavors. You may need to add a little extra seasoning as poultry can be milder than beef.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute that adds creamy texture and a bit of tang. Just choose the plain, unsweetened kind to keep the savory balance.

Can I prepare this casserole a day ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it fully but hold off on adding the crispy fried onions until just before baking. Store covered in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed the next day for fresh, crispy toppings.

Final Thoughts

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe truly combines ease and comfort in the best way. It’s one of those dishes you’ll love making because it rewards you with satisfying layers of flavor and texture that feel just right any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy all those melty cheese, beefy, oniony bites that make this casserole such a beloved classic in my kitchen. Happy cooking and happy eating!