French Onion Beef Casserole

If you’re in search of the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this French Onion Beef Casserole. Imagine tender beef, rich caramelized onions, savory herbs, and melty cheese all nestled in perfectly cooked pasta. This dish brings the flavors of French onion soup into a hearty, family-friendly casserole! Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or craving a midweek indulgence, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

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Why You’ll Love This French Onion Beef Casserole:

• Flavor-packed: Caramelized onions give that deep, sweet flavor, while garlic, thyme, and onion powder add a savory punch.
• Comforting: The combination of beef, cheese, and pasta is pure comfort food perfection.
• Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you need something easy yet delicious.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the ingredients, making it versatile for what you have on hand.

Taste Profile:

This casserole has layers of flavors: the rich beef and caramelized onions create a sweet-savory blend, the pasta adds heartiness, and the melted cheese on top seals the deal with its gooey, satisfying finish. One bite, and you’ll be in casserole heaven!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup shredded cheese (your choice—cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère are great options!)
• 4 cups cooked pasta (egg noodles or penne work well)

Optional Add-ins:

• Mushrooms for extra earthiness.
• A splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor.
• Fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Large skillet for browning the beef and caramelizing onions.
• 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking the casserole.
• Wooden spoon for stirring.
• Cheese grater if you’re shredding your own cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re deep golden brown and caramelized—about 15-20 minutes. Set them aside.
3. Brown the Beef:
   In another skillet, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, and set the beef aside.
4. Combine Everything:
   In a large bowl, combine the browned beef, caramelized onions, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, and cooked pasta. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Assemble:
   Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top the casserole with your shredded cheese of choice.
6. Bake:
   Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The smell filling your kitchen will be incredible!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
   Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Dig in and enjoy that rich, cheesy goodness!

What to Serve With French Onion Beef Casserole:

• A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the rich flavors.
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for mopping up all those delicious juices.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans for added veggies on the side.

Tips for Making the Best French Onion Beef Casserole:

• Caramelizing the onions properly takes time, but don’t rush it—this step is key to getting that deep, sweet onion flavor.
• You can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
• For a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top of the cheese before baking.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work well if you’re looking for a lighter option.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Egg noodles or penne are my go-tos, but you can use any sturdy pasta that holds sauce well, like rotini or farfalle.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers would be fantastic and add extra nutrients to the dish.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Just swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety and ensure the beef broth you’re using is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion:

There you have it—your new favorite go-to comfort dish! This French Onion Beef Casserole is simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. From the gooey cheese to the caramelized onions, this dish is packed with flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Looking for more casserole recipes? Check out my Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole or Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole—they’re just as comforting and delicious.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

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