When you need a hearty, satisfying meal that feeds a crowd and doesn’t require a ton of effort, this French Onion Ground Beef Casserole hits the spot every time. It’s loaded with savory flavor, layered with melted cheese, and baked to bubbly perfection—everything you want from a classic comfort food recipe.

I started making this on busy weeknights when I needed something filling and foolproof. The rich, French onion flavors come through with caramelized onions, beef, and a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in one delicious dish. It tastes like it simmered for hours, but it comes together with simple pantry staples and a few smart shortcuts.

If you love ground beef casseroles that feel like a warm hug after a long day, this one’s for you. It’s easy to prep ahead, reheats beautifully, and always brings people back for seconds. Ready to dig into a cheesy baked casserole that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss? Let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Ground Beef Casserole

French Onion Ground Beef is one of those comforting dishes that brings a lot of warmth and satisfaction to any meal. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with hearty ground beef and fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family get-togethers, this dish is not only easy to make, but it also delivers big on taste.

Imagine the aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with rich beef broth and the sweet notes of caramelized onions filling your kitchen. This recipe cleverly captures that beloved French onion flavor in a delicious casserole format. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how everyone at the table will keep coming back for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need for French Onion Ground Beef

To create this delectable French Onion Ground Beef, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you will need:

Essential Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef: This serves as the main protein in the dish, providing richness.
½ to 1 teaspoon garlic salt, to taste: Enhances the flavor of the beef; adjust based on your preference.
2 (10.5-ounce) cans beef consommé: Adds depth and richness, giving a lovely base for the casserole.
2 (10.5-ounce) cans French onion soup: The star of the dish that brings the classic flavor profile.
¾ cup water: Helps create the ideal consistency for the rice to cook well.
2 cups uncooked long grain white rice: The base of the casserole that soaks up the flavors.
¾ cup butter, cut into slices: Helps to add creaminess and flavor.

Optional Add-Ons

Shredded cheese: Such as Swiss or mozzarella, which can be added for a cheesy topping.
Breadcrumbs: For added crunch if you prefer a crispy texture on top.
Chopped fresh herbs: Like parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make French Onion Ground Beef: Step by Step

Making French Onion Ground Beef is straightforward, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Cook Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Sprinkle in ½ to 1 teaspoon of garlic salt. Cook it while crumbling the beef until it turns brown and is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Assemble Casserole

In your prepared baking dish, mix together the cooked ground beef and 2 cups of uncooked long grain white rice. Then, pour in 2 cans of French onion soup, 2 cans of beef consommé, and ¾ cup of water. Stir everything together until well blended.

Step 4: Add Butter

Take ¾ cup of butter, cut into slices, and distribute them evenly over the top of your beef and rice mixture. This will melt into the dish as it cooks, adding richness.

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and start absorbing the flavors.

Step 6: Bake Uncovered

After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil. If you desire, this is a great moment to add a sprinkling of cheese or breadcrumbs to the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, fluff the casserole gently with a fork to mix everything. Serve it warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of this hearty dish.

Serving Suggestions for French Onion Ground Beef

This hearty casserole is perfect on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your meal:

Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
Offer some crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pair with steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a full meal.
Drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top for a tangy kick.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your French Onion Ground Beef

Choose the Right Beef: For the best flavor, use lean ground beef. You can also swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
Be Mindful of Salt: Both the beef consommé and French onion soup contain sodium, so adjust the garlic salt accordingly to prevent the dish from being overly salty.
Let It Rest: After removing from the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Customize It: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. Just ensure they are cooked before adding.

Easy Variations for French Onion Ground Beef

Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth instead of beef consommé for a meat-free option.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the beef while cooking for a little heat.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese into the casserole before baking for extra gooey goodness.

Storage Tips to Store French Onion Ground Beef

Refrigerating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well, so if you want to make it ahead of time, portion it out and keep it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion

French Onion Ground Beef is a perfect blend of savory flavors and textures in one dish. This casserole is not only household-friendly but is also a reliable recipe that you can count on when time is short. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the rich taste of French onion soup in a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family, this dish is sure to impress.

FAQs About French Onion Ground Beef

1. Can I substitute the ground beef with something else?

Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.

2. How can I add more veggies to this casserole?

You can add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just make sure to pre-cook them before mixing them into the casserole.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it before serving.

4. What can I serve with French Onion Ground Beef?

This dish pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables, making it a complete meal.

5. How do I ensure the rice cooks properly?

Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil while baking initially. This traps steam and helps the rice cook evenly. Adding enough liquid is also key.

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French Onion Ground Beef Casserole

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Why You’ll Love This French Onion Ground Beef Casserole