French Onion Ground Beef and Rice

Dinner can often feel like a balancing act—trying to make something hearty, flavorful, and easy enough to get on the table on a busy weeknight. This French onion ground beef and rice casserole does all that and more. With layers of savory ground beef, tender rice, and a rich, caramelized onion flavor, it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone gather around the table without fuss.

I love this recipe because it’s both comforting and surprisingly simple to prepare. The onions slowly cook down until they’re sweet and golden, giving the dish that signature French onion taste, while the ground beef keeps it filling and satisfying. Mixing it all with fluffy rice turns it into a one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy nights or even for meal prep.

What’s great is that this ground beef and rice recipe for dinner doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. You likely have everything you need in your pantry and fridge already, which makes it a go-to when you want something homemade without the stress. And because it’s baked as a casserole, the flavors meld together beautifully, giving every bite a rich, comforting taste.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, feeding a crowd, or just making something special for yourself, this French onion and ground beef rice casserole hits all the marks. It’s hearty, flavorful, and has that irresistible golden-brown top that makes it feel like a treat every time. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it a smart choice for leftovers.

Why You’ll Love It

• Ultimate comfort in a casserole – Every bite of this dish delivers the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions paired with hearty ground beef and tender rice. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate.
• One-dish wonder – With everything baked together, cleanup is a breeze. No juggling multiple pots and pans—just prep, bake, and enjoy.
• Perfect for busy nights – This ground beef and rice recipe for dinner comes together quickly, and you can even make it ahead of time. Pop it in the oven, and dinner is ready with minimal effort.
• Family-friendly flavors – Even picky eaters tend to love it! The cheesy, savory notes combined with rice make it approachable for all ages.
• Leftovers that taste even better – The flavors deepen as it sits, so you can enjoy this French onion and ground beef rice casserole for lunch the next day and still feel like you’re indulging in something special.

Ingredient List

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

Optional Topping:

• ½ cup French fried onions (for that classic crispy finish!)

Ingredient Notes

• I always use Swiss cheese for this—it melts perfectly and gives that rich, gooey French onion flavor.
• Don’t skip the beef broth! It makes the rice super tender and infuses the whole casserole with savory goodness.
• French fried onions on top are optional but trust me, they add a crunchy, golden touch that everyone loves.
• For the onions, slice them thin and cook slowly in butter—this really brings out that sweet, caramelized flavor.
• I like using a mix of olive oil and butter for sautéing—it gives the onions depth and richness without being too greasy.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet – For browning the ground beef and caramelizing the onions. I love using my heavy-bottomed skillet because it heats evenly.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring the onions and beef without scratching your pans.
• Measuring cups & spoons – For accurate rice, broth, and seasoning measurements.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – The ideal size for this casserole; I like glass so I can see that golden top.
• Aluminum foil – Helps the casserole cook evenly without drying out.
• Cheese grater – If you’re shredding your own cheese; freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded.
• Oven mitts – Essential for safely removing your bubbly, hot casserole.

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
• Pro Tip: I like to line the dish with a little parchment on the sides for easy serving and cleanup.

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2. Cook the Onions

• Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and caramelized (about 15–20 minutes).
• Sprinkle in a pinch of salt to help draw out the sweetness.
• Pro Tip: Don’t rush the onions! Low and slow is key to that rich, French onion flavor.

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3. Brown the Ground Beef

• Push the onions to the side of the skillet or transfer them temporarily to a bowl.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
• Drain any excess fat if necessary.
• Season with garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.

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4. Combine Rice and Broth

• Stir the uncooked rice into the skillet with the beef and onions until evenly mixed.
• Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes.
• Pro Tip: Give the rice a quick stir so every grain is coated with the broth and seasonings—this helps it cook evenly in the oven.

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5. Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish.
• Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
• Optional: Add a layer of French fried onions for extra crunch.

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6. Bake to Perfection

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
• Pro Tip: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking—it helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid and makes serving easier.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Caramelize onions slowly – Rushing them with high heat can make them bitter. Low and slow brings out their natural sweetness.
• Use freshly shredded cheese – It melts better and gives a gooey, creamy texture. Pre-shredded can sometimes be coated with starch and won’t melt as smoothly.
• Don’t skip the broth – It keeps the rice tender and infuses the casserole with flavor. Water just won’t do the same job.
• Mix well before baking – Ensures every bite has beef, onions, and rice evenly distributed.
• Rest before serving – Letting the casserole sit for 5 minutes allows it to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and plate.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Ground beef alternatives – Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Cheese swap – Swiss can be replaced with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Rice options – Brown rice or jasmine rice work, just adjust the liquid and baking time slightly.
• Onion tweaks – Mix in caramelized shallots or leeks for a slightly different but equally delicious twist.
• Make it vegetarian – Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty, meat-free casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this French onion and ground beef rice casserole with a simple green salad—it adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors.
• Pair it with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a complete weeknight dinner.
• Serve alongside a warm slice of garlic bread or a buttery baguette—it soaks up all the savory juices perfectly.
• Top individual servings with a spoonful of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a little extra flavor and color.
• For a cozy family-style meal, dish it straight from the baking dish onto plates, letting everyone scoop out their favorite cheesy, onion-filled bites.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for later – This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. Cover tightly with foil or use a freezer-safe container.
• Reheat in the oven – Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, until heated through.
• Microwave reheating – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway if needed.
• Tip for freshness – Add a splash of broth or water before reheating to keep the rice moist and prevent it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice, jasmine rice, or even basmati can work. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, and you might need a little extra broth for brown rice.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a few hours or even the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake when ready. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Definitely. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. The caramelized onions and cheese still make it rich and flavorful.

Do I have to use Swiss cheese?

Not at all. Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar work beautifully. Swiss gives that classic French onion flavor, but feel free to mix it up.

How can I make it extra crispy on top?

Sprinkle French fried onions or a little extra shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. It adds a golden, crunchy finish everyone loves.

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Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out! I’d love to hear your tips, tweaks, or favorite ways to serve it.