Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Delight Recipe
Introduction
This Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Delight is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory ground beef, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese, it brings together simple ingredients for a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (lean beef is healthier)
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice (long grain or jasmine rice yields the best results)
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup (a homemade version can elevate this dish)
- 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Gruyère or provolone work for stronger flavor)
- 2 tbsp Butter (enhances richness when cooking the beef)
- 1 tsp Onion Powder (substitute fresh onions for robust taste)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder (fresh garlic also works great)
- 1 tbsp Chopped Parsley (optional, as a fresh garnish)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Season the beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat evenly.
- Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, cooked rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Stir until well incorporated.
- Step 5: Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Step 7: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try using Gruyère or provolone cheese instead of mozzarella.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dish without sacrificing creaminess.
- Add fresh chopped onions and garlic instead of powder for a more robust taste.
- Use brown rice for a healthier, fiber-rich variation.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. This dish also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Cooking times and seasoning may need slight adjustments to suit the milder flavor.
Is it better to use fresh onions and garlic instead of powders?
Fresh onions and garlic offer a stronger, more vibrant flavor, but powders are convenient and work well if you’re short on time.
PrintOnion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Delight Recipe
This hearty Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Delight combines savory browned ground beef with flavorful French onion soup, creamy sour cream, and tender white rice, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting and satisfying baked dish. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, this casserole is rich in flavor and simple to prepare.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb Ground Beef (Lean beef is healthier)
- 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Gruyère or provolone work for stronger flavor)
- 2 tbsp Butter (Enhances richness when cooking the beef)
Pantry Items and Seasonings
- 3 cups Cooked White Rice (Long grain or jasmine rice yields the best results)
- 1 can Condensed French Onion Soup (A homemade version can elevate this dish)
- 1 tsp Onion Powder (Substitute fresh onions for robust taste)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic also works great)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Garnish
- 1 tbsp Chopped Parsley (Optional, as a fresh garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking.
- Cook the ground beef: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Season the beef: Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef, mixing thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Mix the casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the seasoned beef with the cooked white rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and has turned golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch before serving hot.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef helps reduce fat content in the dish.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter, tangier flavor and reduced fat.
- For a more intense onion flavor, use fresh sautéed onions instead of onion powder.
- Homemade condensed French onion soup can enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Ensure to drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready to serve.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: ground beef casserole, rice casserole, French onion soup recipe, easy baked casserole, comfort food, weeknight dinner
