French Onion Ground Beef & Rice Casserole – Cozy, Cheesy, and Packed with Flavor!

If you’re a fan of French onion soup, this casserole is a must-try! It takes the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and blends them with juicy ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy, cheesy topping. The result is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

This casserole is a fantastic way to bring bold flavors together in a simple, one-pan meal. The combination of French onion soup and cream of mushroom soup creates a luscious, umami-packed base, while the beef broth helps cook the rice to perfection. A generous layer of Swiss or mozzarella cheese adds the perfect melty finish, and the crispy fried onions on top provide that signature crunch.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Everything comes together in a single baking dish, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the recipe is versatile—you can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even swap in different cheeses for a new twist on the classic flavors.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this French Onion Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is sure to be a hit. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup crispy fried onions (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in the French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Add the uncooked rice and stir until fully incorporated. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Top with crispy fried onions and return to the oven for 5 more minutes until golden brown.
8. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors!

Variations

• Mushroom Lovers: Add sliced mushrooms for an extra layer of umami flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère for a more authentic French onion flavor or cheddar for a sharper taste.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute cauliflower rice for white rice and reduce the beef broth slightly.

Tips

• For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after adding the fried onions.
• If using brown rice, increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes and add a bit more broth.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.
• This dish freezes well—just assemble it ahead of time, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

This French Onion Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. Try it out for an easy, satisfying dinner the whole family will love!