French Onion Beef Casserole

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French Onion Beef Casserole is a fabulous dish that brings together the comforting flavors of French onion soup with hearty beef and pasta. It’s the perfect meal for families who appreciate a warm, savory dish after a long day. The rich and aromatic combination of caramelized onions, tender beef, and creamy noodles is bound to become a favorite in your household. Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this!

Why We Love This French Onion Beef Casserole Recipe

This French Onion Beef Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that truly captures the essence of comfort food. The caramelized onions add a sweet depth that beautifully complements the savory beef. You’ll love how the egg noodles perfectly soak up the rich broth, creating a dish that is hearty yet soul-soothing. The crispy fried onions on top offer a delightful crunch, elevating the experience of each bite.

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or any dietary restrictions. It’s also a fantastic dish for meal prep, making it easier to enjoy homemade quality food during the week. When you serve this casserole, it feels like a warm hug on a plate, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients about French Onion Beef Casserole

To create this comforting French Onion Beef Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) condensed French onion soup
  • 12 ounces wide egg noodles
  • 6 ounces crispy fried onions

How to Make French Onion Beef Casserole Directions

Making French Onion Beef Casserole is as simple as gathering your ingredients and following these steps. Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add your thinly sliced onions to the skillet.

Sauté the onions for about 25 to 30 minutes until they are beautifully caramelized. This step is crucial as it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, which will serve as a wonderful base for your casserole.

Next, add the ground beef into the skillet. Break it apart as it cooks, mixing it with the onions. Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, sprinkle in the onion soup mix, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to incorporate the flavors.

After that, pour in the beef broth and the two cans of condensed French onion soup. This combination gives the casserole its flavorful base. Next, gently fold in the wide egg noodles, pressing them under the liquid to ensure they cook evenly.

Bring the mixture to a boil; then, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the skillet.

Once the noodles have softened, remove the skillet from the heat. At this point, you can sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top of the casserole. This adds a fantastic crunch and extra flavor to your dish. Now, your French Onion Beef Casserole is complete and ready to serve!

How to Serve French Onion Beef Casserole

Serving French Onion Beef Casserole is simple yet rewarding. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist diving into this delicious meal. Use a large spoon to scoop out generous portions onto plates. For the ultimate comfort food experience, consider serving it with a side of fresh green salad or garlic bread.

You can also top it with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of color and freshness. The casserole can be served immediately after preparation as it’s at its finest when hot, fresh, and bubbling. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving this dish in the center of the table for a communal dining experience. Your friends and family will surely enjoy helping themselves to this delicious, hearty meal.

Expert Tips: French Onion Beef Casserole

To enhance your French Onion Beef Casserole experience, here are some expert tips to consider:

  • Caramelization: Don’t rush the onion caramelization process. Allowing them to cook slowly will bring out their sweetness and improve the dish’s flavor.
  • Meat Options: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner meat option.
  • Noodle Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. While egg noodles work perfectly, you can also try rotini or penne for a fun twist.
  • Customize Your Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes.
  • Make Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time. Assemble the dish but do not add the fried onions until you’re ready to bake. This keeps the topping crispy.

How to Store French Onion Beef Casserole

Storing your French Onion Beef Casserole is straightforward. If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for about two to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can reheat it in the oven to retain its texture, or use the microwave for quicker warming.

Variation of French Onion Beef Casserole

There are so many ways to customize your French Onion Beef Casserole based on your preferences or dietary needs.

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap out the beef for a veggie crumbles alternative or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian delight. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.
  • Cheesy Twist: Add layers of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, between the noodle layers for a cheesy French Onion variation. You can also mix in some cheese with the beef before baking for extra creaminess.
  • Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process. They provide an aromatic boost that complements the dish beautifully.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure that whatever soup mix you choose is gluten-free, making this dish accessible for those avoiding gluten.

FAQs

What makes this French Onion Beef Casserole so special?
This casserole combines the deep flavors of caramelized onions and savory beef, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The addition of crispy fried onions gives it a delightful crunch.

Can I use different types of meat in the casserole?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives to suit your taste.

How can I ensure my French Onion Beef Casserole isn’t dry?
To prevent dryness, be sure to keep an eye on the liquid level while simmering the noodles. They should be fully submerged in the broth while cooking to remain moist.

Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just wait to add the crispy onions until you are ready to bake and serve it.

French Onion Beef Casserole

French Onion Beef Casserole

This comforting casserole combines the flavors of French onion soup with hearty beef and pasta for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Bread Pan

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Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 packet onion soup mix (1 ounce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 cans condensed French onion soup (10.5 ounces each)
  • 12 ounces wide egg noodles
  • 6 ounces crispy fried onions

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 25-30 minutes until caramelized.
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and fully cooked.
  • Stir in the onion soup mix, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
  • Pour in the beef broth and condensed French onion soup. Stir to combine.
  • Fold in the egg noodles, pressing them under the liquid to ensure even cooking.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove from heat and sprinkle crispy fried onions on top.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Keyword Beef, Casserole