French Onion Beef Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a rich, savory, and comforting meal that combines the flavors of French onion soup with hearty beef, look no further than French Onion Beef Casserole. This delicious dish layers seasoned ground beef with egg noodles, caramelized onions, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings and is sure to become a favorite thanks to its irresistible combination of flavors. Let’s get started with this cozy, mouthwatering casserole recipe!

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What is French Onion Beef Casserole?

French Onion Beef Casserole is a savory baked dish that features ground beef, caramelized onions, egg noodles, and plenty of cheese. It’s inspired by the flavors of French onion soup, known for its deeply caramelized onions and beefy broth. In this casserole, we combine these elements with a creamy sauce and noodles to create a dish that’s comforting, hearty, and incredibly flavorful. The dish is then topped with crispy fried onions and baked until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients List for French Onion Beef Casserole

Main Ingredients:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef works best, but you can use any variety. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken.
• Egg Noodles (12 oz): Cooked al dente, these form the base of the casserole.
• Onions (2 large, yellow or sweet onions): Thinly sliced and caramelized for that classic French onion flavor.
• Beef Broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and a rich beefy flavor to the casserole.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This helps bind the ingredients together with a creamy texture. You can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
• Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess and tang to the sauce.
• Shredded Gruyère or Swiss Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully and enhances the French onion soup flavor. You can also use mozzarella or cheddar.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds depth and enhances the savory beef flavors.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): For caramelizing the onions and adding richness to the dish.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): For seasoning the beef and onions.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds mild heat and balances the flavors.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds extra depth of flavor.
• Dried Thyme (½ teaspoon): For that signature French onion soup flavor.
• Crispy Fried Onions (1 cup): Adds crunch and additional onion flavor when sprinkled on top.

Optional Ingredients:

• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced): Adds extra earthiness to the dish.
• Bacon (½ cup, cooked and crumbled): For a smoky, savory touch.
• Red Wine (¼ cup): If you want to add richness and complexity, deglaze the pan with red wine while caramelizing the onions.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a bright, fresh element for serving.
• French Bread Croutons (½ cup): For an extra crunchy topping reminiscent of the croutons served in French onion soup.

Substitutions and Variations

This French Onion Beef Casserole recipe is easy to customize. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It will still provide great flavor with fewer calories.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the beef and use plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly dish. Add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms to bulk up the casserole.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and be sure to check that the soup mix and crispy fried onions are also gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap out the noodles for cauliflower or zucchini slices for a low-carb casserole.
• Extra Veggies: Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for more nutrients and color in the casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through how to make this delicious French Onion Beef Casserole.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts to perfection.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Season the onions with salt, pepper, garlic, and thyme as they cook. If you’re using red wine, deglaze the pan with it halfway through the cooking process to add more flavor to the onions.

Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef

In the same skillet, push the caramelized onions to the side and add the ground beef. Cook the beef until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, beef, caramelized onions, and creamy sauce. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated. If you're adding mushrooms or other optional ingredients, stir them in at this stage.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the beef and noodle mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

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

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles until al dente and set them aside.
3. Caramelize the onions in butter with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Brown the ground beef in the same skillet, then drain any excess fat.
5. Make the creamy sauce by mixing cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Combine the cooked noodles, beef, caramelized onions, and sauce in a large mixing bowl.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese.
8. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then add crispy fried onions and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes.
9. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Cooking Onions Long Enough: Don’t rush the process of caramelizing the onions. Cooking them low and slow brings out their sweetness and deep flavor.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked noodles will become mushy.
• Skipping the Drain on Ground Beef: If you don’t drain excess fat from the beef, your casserole could become greasy. Use lean beef or drain the fat after browning.
• Not Letting the Casserole Rest: Let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This will help the flavors meld together and make serving easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a beautiful presentation and a well-rounded meal, here are some simple serving suggestions:

• With a Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Serve with Bread: Pair the casserole with slices of crusty French bread or garlic bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
• Add a Vegetable Side: Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots complement the rich, savory casserole.

How to Serve French Onion Beef Casserole

• Family Style: Place the casserole dish at the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, scoop individual portions onto plates and garnish each with fresh parsley or extra crispy onions.
• Top with Extras: Before serving, you can top each serving with a little extra shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or even a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Presentation Ideas for French Onion Beef Casserole

• Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: Bake and serve the casserole directly in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle presentation.
• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or extra crispy fried onions on top adds color and a crunchy texture.
• Use a Crusty Topping: You can add a layer of croutons or bread crumbs on top before baking to create a crispy, golden crust that’s reminiscent of French onion soup.

French Onion Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. Add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it but do not bake. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I freeze French Onion Beef Casserole?
A: Absolutely. You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, while egg noodles work best, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.

Conclusion

French Onion Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, rich caramelized onions, and melty cheese into one irresistible dish. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With layers of flavor and a crunchy, cheesy top, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Follow the recipe and tips above to create a meal that’s full of hearty, comforting goodness! Enjoy!

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