Comfort food meets weeknight ease with this French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole. This dish brings together savory ground beef, sweet caramelized onions, and fluffy rice, all wrapped in a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly golden casserole. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you want something hearty and satisfying.

One of the best parts? It requires minimal prep and simple ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers a cozy, full-flavor punch with every bite. Bonus: it’s a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup just as easy as cooking.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

If you’re a fan of French onion soup, this recipe transforms that flavor into a filling, fork-friendly meal. It’s rich without being heavy, layered with textures from tender beef to melty cheese, and the onions create that deep, savory backbone you expect. The rice soaks up all the flavor, making every mouthful balanced and hearty. It’s also a great make-ahead option and freezes well.

Can I Use a Different Type of Onion?

Absolutely. While sweet or yellow onions are traditional for French onion flavors, red onions or even shallots can offer an interesting twist. Just keep in mind, the deeper the caramelization, the richer the flavor. And yes, pre-sliced onions work in a pinch, though nothing beats freshly sliced and slow-cooked ones.

Ingredients for the French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

The beauty of this casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in building that deep, savory flavor profile.

Ground Beef adds the meaty foundation and protein to make this a hearty, filling dish.

Yellow Onions are slowly caramelized to develop that signature French onion flavor and sweetness.

Cooked Rice absorbs all the juices and adds a comforting base that ties everything together.

Beef Broth deepens the savory notes and keeps the casserole moist.

Sour Cream lends creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness.

Shredded Swiss Cheese melts beautifully and adds a nutty, melty top.

Worcestershire Sauce adds umami depth and pairs perfectly with the onions and beef.

Olive Oil helps with the onion caramelization process and enhances overall flavor.

Salt & Pepper round out the seasoning to taste.

French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole (1)

How To Make the French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook low and slow until golden brown, stirring occasionally. This can take 20 to 30 minutes, but it’s worth every second for that rich flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In the same skillet, push the onions to the side and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Mix the Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, beef and onion mixture, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with shredded Swiss cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving and Storing This Hearty Casserole

This French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole serves about 6 people generously. It’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks and makes great leftovers.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, just pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze it before or after baking for up to 2 months. If frozen after baking, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Steamed Green Beans

Light and snappy, green beans keep the meal balanced without stealing the spotlight.

Garlic Bread

You can never go wrong with buttery, garlicky bread on the side to soak up all those delicious juices.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A slightly bitter and crispy veggie side that complements the savory casserole beautifully.

Pickled Beets

Their tanginess and sweetness cut through the richness and add color to your plate.

Applesauce

This might surprise you, but a side of unsweetened applesauce can be a lovely pairing with the onion-forward flavors.

Classic Deviled Eggs

These make an old-fashioned, crowd-pleasing side to go with any hearty dish.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this French Onion Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole when you’re craving something creamy and comforting.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole for a veggie-packed, beefy twist.
Beefy Tortilla Taco Casserole if you’re in the mood for something Tex-Mex.
Creamy Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Casserole for a kid-approved favorite.
Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole that hits every comfort food note.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest casserole board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Swiss cheese or mix it up with mozzarella? Add some mushrooms for extra depth?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier.

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