French Onion Ground Beef And Rice Casserole

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup (or 1½ cups homemade French onion soup)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss, depending on preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and slightly caramelized.
4. Add the Soup and Rice: Stir in the French onion soup, beef broth, and rice. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour the beef and rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Return the casserole to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is fully cooked.
8. Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Enjoy this comforting French onion-flavored casserole!