Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
2 cups (370 g) long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cans (10.5 ounces each) French onion soup
2 cans (10.5 ounces each) beef consommé
½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, sliced into pats
Chopped chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Cook Ground Beef
In a medium skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked (8-10 minutes). Drain the grease.
Combine Ingredients
Transfer the cooked ground beef to the prepared baking dish. Add uncooked rice, French onion soup, and beef consommé. Mix well to combine.
Add Butter
Place the butter pats evenly on top of the rice mixture.
Bake
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
Garnish and Serve
Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped chives (if desired), and serve warm.
Variations
Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Vegetable Additions: Add frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) for extra nutrition and texture.
Spicy Version: Mix in diced jalapeños, chili powder, or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Alternative Proteins: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for the ground beef.
Tips
Rinse Rice: For fluffier rice, rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear before adding it to the dish.
Prevent Dryness: Make sure the foil is tightly sealed during the first 30 minutes to lock in moisture.
Rest Time: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and rice to settle.
Soup Substitutes: If you can’t find French onion soup or beef consommé, use beef broth and add onion powder or sautéed onions for flavor.
This simple and versatile recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal!