French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Looking for a delicious and hearty meal to satisfy your cravings? This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect comfort food that the whole family will love! Packed with savory flavors and simple ingredients, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 can French onion soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked ground beef, uncooked rice, French onion soup, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Popular Questions:

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio.

• Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

• What can I substitute for French onion soup?

You can make your own onion soup mix using caramelized onions, beef broth, and seasonings.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

• Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well and makes for a convenient meal prep option.

Helpful Tips:

• Add some caramelized onions for extra flavor.
• Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy topping.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices for a unique twist.
• Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Try mixing in some cooked vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition.

Expert Secrets:

• For a richer flavor, use ground beef with higher fat content.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more garlic powder or onion powder.
• For a cheesy crust, broil the casserole for a few minutes after melting the cheese.
• Sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant finish.

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