Dinner

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

ByLana Polati January 25, 2026January 25, 2026

Introduction

This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory ground beef with creamy rice and tangy French onion soup, it’s topped with melted cheese for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

A white baked dish filled with three clear layers: the bottom layer is a chunky, dark brown cooked ground meat mixture, the middle layer is creamy, smooth yellowish mashed potatoes, and the top layer is golden brown, crispy mashed potatoes with small green herb leaves scattered on top. A silver spoon is lifting a portion from the dish, showing all three layers clearly, with a woman's hand holding the spoon. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
3 cups cooked white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef until well combined.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, cooked rice, condensed French onion soup, and sour cream until evenly combined.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 7: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

Substitute mozzarella with Swiss or Gruyere cheese for a deeper, more traditional French onion flavor.
Use brown rice or cauliflower rice as a healthier alternative to white rice.
Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth and richness.
For a creamier texture, mix in a little cream cheese with the sour cream before combining.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain texture, or microwave covered on medium power.