French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
There is something incredibly comforting and irresistible about a warm, cheesy casserole that combines hearty flavors with a touch of nostalgia. The French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe brings all of those elements together in one dish that is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to prepare. This casserole layers caramelized onions, savory ground beef, tender noodles, and crispy French fried onions, all baked to perfection under a blanket of melted cheese. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved favorite weeknight meal or crowd-pleaser for potlucks and family dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building deep, rich flavors and pleasing textures. These essentials blend together to give the dish its creamy, savory, and slightly crispy profile.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein base that gives the casserole its satisfying meaty texture.
- Olive oil: Used to gently sauté onions until caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Yellow onion: Thinly sliced and slowly cooked for that signature French onion flavor and golden color.
- Garlic: Adds subtle aromatic depth to the beef and onions.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy, velvety sauce that binds the ingredients and adds umami richness.
- Sour cream: Introduces tanginess and smoothness to the casserole’s texture.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Worcestershire sauce: A small splash to boost the savory complexity.
- Dried thyme: Brings a mild earthiness, complementing the beef and onions beautifully.
- Cooked egg noodles: Tender pasta that soaks up the sauce and adds comforting body.
- Shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese: Melted on top to give a gooey, golden crust.
- Crispy French fried onions: Divided into the mixture and topping, they provide an addictive crunch.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish to finish the presentation.
How to Make French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure that your casserole won’t stick and will come out easily after baking. Taking care of this first means less fuss later on.
Step 2: Caramelize Onions and Sauté Garlic
This step is where the dish gets its signature French onion flavor. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and cook the thinly sliced yellow onions slowly until they turn golden brown and caramelized, usually around 10 to 12 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Patience here pays off by developing deep, sweet onion notes.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add your ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook it until it’s fully browned and no longer pink inside, breaking it up as it cooks so there are no large chunks. When done, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily, but leave that flavor behind in the pan.
Step 4: Mix in Sauces, Seasonings, and Noodles
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream carefully to create a creamy base. Then add Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme for that layered savory taste. Fold in your cooked egg noodles and 1 cup of crispy French fried onions to add texture and flavor right inside the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole and Add Toppings
Transfer the beef and noodle mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese over the top, then finish with the remaining ½ cup of French fried onions. This combination will turn into a delicious melty and crunchy top once baked.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for bubbling edges and a golden-brown melted cheese topping—that’s your cue that the casserole is ready to come out.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve Hot
Before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe while it’s hot and enjoy every hearty, cheesy bite.
How to Serve French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple but essential garnish—it brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle herbal note that balances the richness. For an extra indulgent touch, a drizzle of a robust balsamic reduction or a few grinds of fresh black pepper can also elevate the flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies like green beans or broccoli to add some freshness and crunch on the side. A crusty baguette or warm dinner rolls can be served alongside to sop up any leftover creamy sauce, making the meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This makes a charming presentation for dinners or entertaining guests. You can also top it with different cheeses like Gruyère or sharp cheddar to change the flavor profile while keeping the spirit of the French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe alive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier when reheated.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Freeze portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To avoid sogginess, consider freezing before baking, then add fresh crispy onions and cheese on top before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quicker reheating, but the oven helps maintain a crispy top and even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic for this casserole, you can swap in rotini, penne, or any pasta you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms for a similar hearty texture. You can also use vegetable broth and omit Worcestershire sauce if concerned about anchovies.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble the entire casserole up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the crispy onion topping right before baking to keep them crunchy.
What’s the best cheese to use for topping?
Mozzarella and Swiss cheese both melt beautifully and work great in this recipe. For a nuttier flavor, Gruyère is also an excellent choice, enhancing that French onion character.
How can I make the onions extra crispy on top?
Sprinkle the crispy French fried onions on top just before baking. If you want them even crispier, you can broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up, the French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It brings together so many textures and tastes that feel both indulgent and comforting. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole will not disappoint. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a classic in your recipe rotation!
Print
French Onion Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting French Onion Ground Beef Casserole combining caramelized onions, savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions baked to golden perfection with melted cheese on top. Perfect for an easy family meal with a rich and hearty flavor.
Ingredients
Meat and Produce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Dairy and Canned Goods
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Pantry Items and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 1 1/2 cups crispy French fried onions (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they become caramelized and golden brown, about 10–12 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to release its aroma.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook thoroughly until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix everything well, then fold in the cooked egg noodles and 1 cup of crispy French fried onions to add a nice crunch inside the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese over the top, then add the remaining 1/2 cup of French fried onions for an extra crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese topping is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty French Onion Ground Beef Casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
- For a lower fat option, use lean ground beef and reduced-fat sour cream.
- If you prefer a stronger onion flavor, add a small amount of onion powder or caramelize the onions a bit longer.
- Leftovers store well covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the fried onions and cream of mushroom soup are gluten-free or substitute accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
