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
Scale
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
