Description
This Indulgent French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. It combines savory browned ground beef simmered with onion and garlic powders, creamy French onion soup, and tangy sour cream, layered with fluffy white rice and topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a luscious finish. Easy to prepare and baked to bubbly perfection, this casserole delivers rich, satisfying flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean Ground Beef
- 2 cups Cooked White Rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup
- 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt as a low-fat substitute)
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (Gruyère or provolone can be used for variation)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (olive oil can be substituted)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (fresh onion can be used alternatively)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh garlic can be used for more robust flavor)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- Chopped Parsley, to garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, draining excess fat if desired.
- Season the Beef: Stir in 1 teaspoon of onion powder and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spices release their aroma.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with 2 cups of cooked white rice, 1 can of condensed French onion soup, and 1 cup of sour cream. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole base.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch before serving.
Notes
- Day-old rice is preferred as it has the ideal texture for casseroles, preventing mushiness.
- For a healthier alternative, substitute butter with olive oil and sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Fresh onions and garlic can be used instead of powders for a more intense flavor.
- Try swapping mozzarella with Gruyère or provolone cheese for unique flavor variations.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste preference.
- Let the casserole rest a bit after baking to set before serving.
