French Onion Beef Casserole Recipe

French Onion Beef Casserole is a warm, hearty, and flavorful dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Packed with savory beef, rich French onion flavor, and cheesy goodness, this casserole will have your family coming back for seconds! In this recipe, we’ll cover everything from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, as well as variations and tips to make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Keep reading to discover the ultimate guide to cooking the perfect French Onion Beef Casserole!

What is a “French Onion Beef Casserole”?

French Onion Beef Casserole is a comforting baked dish made with ground beef, onions, French onion soup mix, noodles or pasta, and a cheesy topping that melts into a golden, bubbly layer. Inspired by the flavors of French onion soup, this casserole takes a beloved classic and gives it a delicious twist, combining tender beef with caramelized onions and creamy cheese for a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep for the week.

Ingredients List for French Onion Beef Casserole

To make a rich and delicious French Onion Beef Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef: Lean ground beef works well for a balanced flavor, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• 1 large yellow onion: Sliced thinly, this will be caramelized to bring out that signature sweet onion flavor.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup: This is the key to infusing the dish with deep onion flavor.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds a creamy texture that complements the beef and onions.
• 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the richness of the dish, ensuring it's not too dry.
• 2 cups cooked egg noodles or pasta: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can use other pasta varieties like penne or rotini.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted on top for that irresistible cheesy layer.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth of flavor to the cheesy topping.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a deep, savory note that complements the beef.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic touch.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasoning to balance flavors.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Used for cooking the onions to caramelize them perfectly.

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 cup sour cream: For an extra creamy and tangy twist, mix into the casserole before baking.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: For garnish, adding a fresh pop of color and brightness.
• French fried onions or breadcrumbs: For extra crunch on top of the casserole.

Substitutions and Variations

Whether you're looking to adjust the recipe to accommodate dietary restrictions or simply want to experiment with flavors, here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:

• Meat Substitutes: If you prefer a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or even rice to make this dish suitable for those avoiding gluten.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or Parmesan to change up the flavor profile. Gruyère is especially great if you want to stay true to the traditional French onion soup flavors.
• Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition of this casserole by adding vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even green beans.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the noodles entirely and add cauliflower florets for a low-carb twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all of your ingredients. Slice the onion thinly, shred the cheese, and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles and set them aside. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them for about 10-12 minutes until they are soft and caramelized, stirring occasionally. Once the onions are browned and fragrant, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Using the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook it over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Break the meat apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease and return the beef to the skillet.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

To the cooked beef, add the caramelized onions, condensed French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef mixture. Stir until the noodles are evenly coated. Transfer the noodle and beef mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you're using French fried onions or breadcrumbs, add them now for an extra crunchy topping.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

How to Cook French Onion Beef Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Caramelize Onions: Slowly cook onions in butter until they turn a rich, golden brown.
2. Brown the Beef: Cook ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart into crumbles.
3. Mix the Sauces: Combine French onion soup, cream of mushroom, beef broth, and seasonings.
4. Assemble: Mix the cooked noodles and beef mixture in a baking dish.
5. Top with Cheese: Cover with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
6. Bake: Cook at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not caramelizing the onions: The rich, sweet flavor of the onions comes from slow cooking. Don’t rush this step!
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook your noodles al dente (just underdone), as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
• Skipping the cheese topping: The cheesy layer is what makes this casserole so comforting. Don’t skimp on the cheese!

Serving and Presentation Tips

French Onion Beef Casserole is hearty and satisfying, but how you serve and present it can elevate the meal. Here are some ideas for making the dish look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve French Onion Beef Casserole

• Family-style: Place the casserole dish in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• Portioned servings: Cut the casserole into squares and serve individually on plates for a more formal presentation.

Presentation Ideas for French Onion Beef Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top to brighten the dish and add a fresh flavor contrast.
• Add a crunchy topping: Besides French fried onions, you can top the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for added texture.
• Serve with sides: Pair this rich casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

French Onion Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, pop it in the oven and cook for an extra 5-10 minutes.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Prepare it as directed, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Double the Recipe: If you're serving a crowd, double the ingredients and bake in two 9x13-inch dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or Parmesan. Gruyère is a fantastic option if you want a flavor closer to traditional French onion soup.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it the next day. Just add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta option, and ensure the soups and broth you're using are certified gluten-free.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes! After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

French Onion Beef Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the comforting flavors of beef, onions, and cheese into one delicious package. With its gooey, cheesy topping and rich, savory filling, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe is a go-to choice. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and serve it with sides to make it your own. Try it today and enjoy the flavors of French onion soup in casserole form!

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