French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Looking for a savory and satisfying meal to serve up for dinner tonight? This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is sure to hit the spot! Packed with flavor and easy to make, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can French onion soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• 2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, and continue cooking until the onion is soft.
• 3. Stir in the rice, cream of mushroom soup, French onion soup, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
• 4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
• 5. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• 6. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.

• Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid as brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.

• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, Gruyere, or Swiss to change up the flavor profile of the casserole.

Helpful tips:

• 1. For added flavor, sauté the rice in the skillet with the ground beef until lightly toasted before adding the soups and broth.
• 2. Sprinkle some French fried onions on top of the casserole before baking for a crunchy texture.
• 3. Add some chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a pop of freshness.

Expert Secrets:

• 1. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together before serving.
• 2. Covering the casserole with foil during baking helps to keep the rice moist and tender.
• 3. Make sure to season the ground beef well with salt and pepper as it cooks to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.