French Onion Beef Rice

This delicious French Onion Beef and Rice Casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a rich and comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef and rice soak up the savory flavors of butter, beef consommé, French onion soup, and mushrooms for a dish that is both hearty and satisfying without requiring hours in the kitchen. With just eight ingredients and minimal prep, it’s an easy recipe that feels much more special than the time invested.

This casserole first became a staple in my family when I needed a nofuss dinner solution on a hectic weeknight. Now it’s a requested comfort food that everyone enjoys.

Ingredients

• One pound lean ground beef: Look for 85 percent lean or better to avoid excess grease
• One medium onion chopped: Yellow or sweet onions are preferred for their mild sweetness
• One teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth granulated or minced garlic works well too
• Two cups uncooked white rice: Long grain or jasmine rice yields fluffy grains after baking
• Eight ounces chopped mushrooms: Baby bella or white mushrooms bring earthiness and texture to the dish
• Twentyone ounces French onion soup: Choose a quality canned version like Campbell's for authentic flavor
• Twentyone ounces beef consommé: Provides a rich beef broth base that infuses the rice deeply
• Half cup butter: Use unsalted real butter to add richness and help meld all the flavors

Instructions

Preheat oven:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Brown beef:

Brown and drain the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. This step is key to a flavorful base and prevents oily casserole. Season the cooked beef by sprinkling in garlic powder and stirring it in evenly.

Cook onions:

Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook over medium heat until the onion becomes tender and translucent. This usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes and builds a sweet aroma that enhances the dish’s complexity.

Layer beef:

Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the bottom of an ungreased 9 by 13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer.

Add rice:

Sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly over the beef mixture. Make sure to distribute it so the rice cooks properly and covers the entire surface.

Add mushrooms:

Next, scatter the chopped mushrooms on top of the rice layer. The mushrooms provide moisture and umami, which lift the casserole beyond basic beef and rice.

Pour soups and consommé:

Pour both cans or 21 ounces each of French onion soup and beef consommé slowly over the layered ingredients. These liquids soak into the rice as it bakes imparting a deep, savory flavor.

Add butter:

Cut the butter into slices and spread them evenly over the top of the casserole. The butter melts during baking adding richness and helping to prevent the rice from drying out.

Bake:

Cover the casserole tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. After that time, carefully remove the foil and stir the mixture. If the rice is tender, the casserole is ready to serve. If the rice still has a bit of crunch, cover again and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes.

Serve:

Serve hot after stirring well so the layers combine into a creamy and flavorful dish.

My favorite ingredient has to be the French onion soup. It transforms the casserole from plain to extraordinary every time. I remember my first bite was such a comforting surprise on a chilly evening that it instantly became part of our regular dinners.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven to keep the rice fluffy and the flavors vibrant. This casserole can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter option but watch for extra moisture. Use chicken consommé instead of beef consommé and vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist when paired with plant-based mushrooms or meat substitutes. Swap white rice with brown rice to add fiber but increase baking time by 15 to 20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for a balanced meal. Add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for brightness. A crusty baguette or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra savory sauce.

Let the casserole rest briefly after baking to set, then serve hot with a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of rice works best for this dish?

Long grain, jasmine, or medium grain white rice are ideal for absorbing flavors and baking well in this meal.

→ Can I use other mushrooms besides baby bella?

Yes, white mushrooms or other preferred varieties can be used to add texture and flavor.

→ Why is butter added on top before baking?

Butter melts during baking, enriching the dish with moisture and a creamy, savory taste.

→ Is it necessary to cover the casserole during baking?

Covering with foil traps steam, helping the rice cook evenly and remain tender throughout baking.

→ Can ground beef be substituted with other meats?

Ground turkey or chicken can be used, though adjustments to seasoning and cooking time may be needed.