🧅 French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole


This casserole is a cozy masterpiece—think caramelized onions, savory ground beef, and creamy rice all blanketed in melty cheese. Perfect for a chilly night or a family dinner that’s anything but ordinary.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Caramelized Onions:

  • 3 large yellow onions (about 2 lbs ), thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil )
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional for deeper caramelization )
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Ground Beef Mixture:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean )
  • 1 tbsp flour (to thicken )
  • 1 clove garlic (minced )
  • 1 cup beef broth (or red wine + broth for extra depth )
  • 1 tbsp ** Worcestershire sauce**
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or ½ tsp onion powder )

For the Rice & Sauce:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked )
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for lighter version )
  • 1 cup gruyère or cheddar cheese (shredded )

Toppings (Optional):

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for golden crust )
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted, for topping )
  • Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish )

Step-by-Step Recipe 🥄

1. Caramelize the Onions (The Secret Sauce!):

  • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat . Add onions, sugar, and salt.
  • Cook for 25–30 minutes , stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and sweet.
  • Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step—slow cooking = max flavor!

2. Cook the Beef:

  • In a separate pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
  • Sprinkle flour over the beef, stir to coat, and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Add garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire, and thyme. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.


 

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