French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that is easy to prepare, then French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect choice. This hearty casserole combines ground beef, rice, and the rich flavors of French onion soup. It’s a satisfying dish that is sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
To make this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed French onion soup
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for a few minutes to lightly toast the rice.
4. Pour in the beef broth, condensed French onion soup, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked ground beef. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese on top.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
KETO AND LOW CARBS Variations
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few simple substitutions to make this French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole more suitable for your dietary needs. Instead of using rice, you can use cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative. Simply substitute the same amount of cauliflower rice for the long-grain rice in the recipe. Additionally, you can use a low-carb beef broth and skip the condensed French onion soup, as it may contain added sugars.
Tips
– To add some extra flavor to the casserole, you can sauté the onions until they caramelize. This will give the dish a slightly sweeter taste.
– If you prefer a creamier casserole, you can add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
– This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, remove it from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake as directed.
Conclusion
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or making it ahead of time for a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe that you will want to make again and again. So, give it a try and enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Swiss or mozzarella cheese would also work well in this casserole.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven until heated through.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to this casserole for added flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the rice.
