When it comes to cozy casseroles, few things hit like this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. It’s hearty, creamy, and full of those deep, savory onion flavors everyone loves.
The combination of tender beef, fluffy rice, and melted mozzarella wrapped in a rich sour cream and onion soup sauce makes every bite unforgettable. It’s the kind of dish that smells like home — comforting, filling, and guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice
This recipe brings together the best parts of old-fashioned casseroles — it’s hearty, simple, and perfect for busy nights.
- Uses easy, pantry-friendly ingredients
- One-pan comfort food with minimal cleanup
- Creamy texture with gooey melted cheese
- Great way to use up leftover rice
- Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
- Ready in about 35 minutes
When I first made this recipe, it was one of those “what’s in the fridge” dinners after a long day on a job site. I had some ground beef, a can of French onion soup, and leftover rice. One experiment later, it became a Ramirez household staple — the kind of meal my kids still ask for on cold nights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This casserole layers simple flavors in a way that feels rich and homemade — no complicated steps, just comfort in every scoop.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Swap mozzarella for Swiss or provolone for more onion-soup flavor
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch
- Mix in caramelized onions for extra sweetness
- Use brown rice for a nutty twist
- Top with crushed fried onions for crunch
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version
Step-by-Step Instructions
Casseroles are all about layering flavor — and this one comes together fast.
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
- Season: Stir in onion powder and garlic powder. (This step deepens that signature French onion flavor.)
- Make the creamy mix: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, French onion soup, sour cream, and half of the cheese. Mix well until evenly coated.
- Combine: Add the cooked beef to the mixture and stir to combine everything.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Cook: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Broil for finish: Optional — broil for 2–3 minutes to get a golden, cheesy crust.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t overbake — it’s best when still creamy inside.
- Mix cheeses for a deeper flavor.
- Always taste before adding salt — the soup mix already has plenty.
- Let it rest 5 minutes before serving to firm up.
Expert Tips for Success
Getting the right creamy-meets-cheesy texture is the key to this casserole’s magic.
- Use freshly cooked or day-old rice (not sticky).
- Shred cheese from a block — it melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Want more sauce? Add a few tablespoons of broth to loosen the mix.
- For richer flavor, deglaze your beef pan with a splash of Worcestershire.
- Add crushed fried onions on top before baking for a classic finish.
- Bake uncovered to let steam escape and the top crisp slightly.
- Reheat leftovers covered with foil to preserve texture.
If you love hearty beef casseroles, you’ve got to try my Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole — it’s just as comforting but swaps the rice for noodles and adds a tangy kick.
Serving Suggestions
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole pairs perfectly with light sides to balance its richness.
- Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies
- Add garlic bread for a hearty dinner
- Pair with sautéed spinach or asparagus for color
- Try a light soup starter like Vegetable Orzo Soup
- Serve alongside Garlic Parmesan Meatloaf for a classic comfort combo
- Or try with Beef Rigatoni Cheese Bake for a double dose of cheesy goodness
This dish fits anywhere — potlucks, family dinners, or those “what do I make tonight?” moments. It’s filling, forgiving, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Storing and Reheating
This casserole was made for leftovers — it stores well and reheats beautifully.
How to Store It
- Cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in portions or whole.
- Wrap tightly with foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label containers for easy grab-and-heat meals.
How to Reheat It
- Reheat covered in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes.
- Microwave single servings in 45-second intervals, stirring between.
- Add a splash of broth or milk to keep it moist.
- Top with extra cheese before reheating for that fresh-baked look.
- Avoid overcooking — it’ll dry out quickly.
Even reheated, it keeps that creamy texture and comforting flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use uncooked rice?
No, it’s best to use cooked rice so the casserole stays creamy and not dry.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but Swiss or Gruyère give a stronger onion-soup flavor.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is what weeknight dreams are made of — creamy, cheesy, and baked with love. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table fast and keeps them lingering for seconds.
- Mix your sauce well before baking for even creaminess.
- Don’t skimp on cheese — that golden crust is everything.
- Serve with something green to balance the richness.
Next time you’re craving pure comfort, skip takeout and make this instead. And if you want to mix it up, try my Moroccan Spiced Beef Stew for a slow-cooked twist on cozy beef flavor. Either way, you’ll end up with a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Cheesy French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in onion powder and garlic powder into the beef.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, French onion soup, sour cream, and half the cheese. Mix until well coated.
- Add the beef to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared dish. Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Broil for 2–3 minutes if desired for golden crust.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add caramelized onions or mushrooms for more flavor.
- For crispy topping, broil at the end.
- Store leftovers covered and reheat with a splash of broth for best results.
