French Onion Ground Beef Casserole

This comforting casserole brings together the rich, savory flavors of French onion, perfectly browned ground beef, and tender rice. Quick to prepare, the dish layers ingredients like beef consommé, French onion soup, and butter for a flavorful bake. Serve with your choice of cheesy or crispy toppings for extra indulgence. Ideal for a cozy family dinner any day of the week.

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole transforms basic ingredients into a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that always disappears quickly in my house. The rich, savory taste of French onion soup combines with hearty ground beef and fluffy rice to create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening.

I first created this casserole during a particularly busy week when I needed something substantial but easy. My teenagers now request it regularly, especially when they bring friends over because it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory flavor base perfect for absorbing the soup flavors
• French onion soup cans: Bring complex flavor without chopping a single onion
• Beef consommé: Adds richness and depth that elevates the entire dish
• Long grain white rice: Soaks up all the delicious flavors while providing satisfying texture
• Butter: Creates an irresistible richness that makes this casserole special
• Garlic salt: Seasons the beef perfectly and complements the onion flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the oven:

Preheat your oven to 425°F and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. The high temperature helps develop deeper flavors.

Brown the beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and sprinkle with garlic salt. Cook until completely browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes until no pink remains.

Combine ingredients:

Add the uncooked rice to your prepared baking dish, then spread the cooked ground beef evenly over top. Pour in both cans of French onion soup, both cans of beef consommé, and water. Stir gently until everything is well combined.

Add butter:

Cut your butter into thin slices and distribute them evenly across the top of the casserole. This creates pockets of richness throughout the dish as it melts and bakes.

Covered bake:

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for exactly 30 minutes. The foil traps steam which helps cook the rice properly without drying out.

Uncovered bake:

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes until the rice is tender and the top develops a beautiful golden color with slightly crispy edges.