Every family has those go-to meals that become staples in our kitchens, and for me, the French Onion Beef Casserole is one of them. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, warming bellies and hearts alike. I remember my mom making this on busy weeknights, where the scent of savory beef and comforting noodles would fill the house, making it feel like home no matter how hectic the day had been.
What I love most about this casserole is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that even the pickiest eaters in the family will enjoy. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s so easy to throw together—perfect for a busy mom like me!
This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, and I can’t help but smile when I see my kids digging in. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends, this casserole never disappoints. You can even make it ahead of time, pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home. So grab your ingredients, and let’s make some memories with this delightful French Onion Beef Casserole!
Making French Onion Beef Casserole
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Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 10 ounces uncooked egg noodles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 jar (15 oz) French onion dip
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain them and set aside.
In the meantime, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, seasoning with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat.
Add the cream of mushroom soup and French onion dip to the skillet, stirring to combine everything well.
Gently fold the drained egg noodles into the beef mixture until evenly mixed.
Transfer the beef and noodle mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top of the casserole.
Bake it uncovered in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly.
For an extra touch, garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm and comforting casserole!
Storing Suggestion
This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It also freezes well; just make sure to cover it tightly before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Cooking Tips
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner protein option. If you want to spice things up, add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Always taste and adjust seasoning before baking!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also enjoy serving it with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra sauce. A light red wine or sparkling water would complement the flavors beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have egg noodles, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand. For a dairy-free version, look for dairy-free cream of mushroom soup and French onion dip. Ground beef can be substituted with plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, add diced butternut squash or pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist. During the summer, fresh herbs like basil or thyme can brighten up the dish. In winter, consider adding some chopped kale or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains common allergens like dairy and gluten. For a gluten-free option, substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and ensure your soup and dip are gluten-free. For dairy allergies, use dairy-free alternatives for the soup and dip.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
Can I use leftover beef for this recipe?
Yes, leftover cooked beef works great! Just skip the browning step and mix the leftover beef with the other ingredients. It’s a great way to repurpose leftovers into a delicious new meal.
What should I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or some crusty bread. These options balance the richness of the dish.
How do I reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the casserole better.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just ensure it’s well covered to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it’s heated through and bubbly around the edges. A temperature of 165°F ensures it’s safe to eat. You can also insert a knife in the center to check for warmth.
French Onion Beef Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 10 ounces egg noodles uncooked
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 jar (15 oz) French onion dip
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
- Chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- While the noodles cook, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper, then drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and French onion dip with the cooked beef, combining everything evenly.
- Gently mix the drained noodles into the beef mixture until everything is well combined.
- Pour the beef and noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Evenly sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top of the casserole.
- Bake, uncovered, in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
