Description
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
2 cups cooked wild rice
1 can (10 oz) French onion soup
1 tsp minced garlic
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Steps:
Sauté garlic and ground beef in a skillet until browned.
Mix rice, soup, and beef in a casserole dish.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until golden.
Garlic lovers, this one’s for you!
#GarlicOnionCasserole
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté 1 tsp of minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, 2 cups of cooked wild rice, and the entire can (10 oz) of French onion soup. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese uniformly over the top.
- Bake on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more rustic meal, serve it alongside roasted green beans or steamed broccoli. A crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce.
How-to Summary
Brown garlic and beef, mix with cooked rice and French onion soup in a dish, top with Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of rice? Yes. While wild rice adds a nutty flavor and texture, you can substitute with brown rice, white rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Just ensure it’s pre-cooked.
What can I use instead of French onion soup? You can use a condensed cream of mushroom or golden mushroom soup mixed with 1/2 cup of beef broth and a packet of dry onion soup mix for a similar flavor profile.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely. Sliced mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers can be sautéed with the ground beef for added nutrition and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the beef fat: Leaving excess grease can make the final dish oily. Always drain the browned beef well.
- Using uncooked rice: The rice must be fully cooked before mixing, as the short baking time and minimal liquid will not cook raw rice.
- Overbaking: Bake just until the cheese is melted and golden. Overbaking can dry out the casserole and make the rice hard.
- Forgetting to let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
Conclusion
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the epitome of easy, comforting, and flavorful weeknight cooking. With its savory French onion depth, hearty beef, and cheesy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together with minimal effort. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize it to your taste. It’s a versatile recipe that promises a delicious and satisfying meal any day of the week.
