If you’re searching for a cozy dinner idea that delights your taste buds and warms your heart, look no further than this Simple French Onion Beef Casserole. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of ground beef and creamy French onion sauce with tender egg noodles, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or meal prep. Imagine a cozy winter night, where a hot, bubbling casserole emerges from the oven, beckoning you to dig in! With its blend of comforting textures and mouthwatering flavors, this casserole is bound to become a beloved staple in your home.
One of the best parts about this recipe is its remarkable simplicity—it can be whipped up in just 45 minutes from start to finish, so it’s ideal for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, including easy-to-find staples like ground beef, egg noodles, and French onion soup, this dish is not only convenient but also very satisfying. It also caters to different dietary preferences, with options to tweak ingredients as you please. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a regular Tuesday night, this Simple French Onion Beef Casserole promises flavor and satisfaction for everyone at the table, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Simple French Onion Beef Casserole
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes!
- Comforting & Hearty: Perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something warm and filling.
- Family-Friendly: Mild flavors that both kids and adults will adore.
- Flexible Recipe: Easy to modify with different proteins or vegetables according to your tastes.
- Amazing Leftovers: Convenient for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making this mouthwatering casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools. Start by collecting a large pot for boiling the egg noodles and a spacious skillet for browning the beef. A 9×13-inch baking dish is necessary for assembling and baking your casserole. Make sure to have measuring cups and spoons handy, along with a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring. Additionally, gather your ingredients on the counter so that everything is within reach, which streamlines the cooking process and keeps you organized. Also, preheat your oven to ensure it’s ready once your casserole is assembled.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups crispy French fried onions
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the wide egg noodles. Follow the cooking instructions on the package but remember to cook them for just 1 minute less than directed. This slight undercooking helps prevent the noodles from becoming overly soft during baking. After they’ve cooked, drain them and set aside, allowing them to cool slightly.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the noodles are cooking, take a skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and start browning it, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure that the beef is cooked through and nicely browned, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to create that flavorful creamy sauce. Lower the heat slightly, and stir in the condensed French onion soup, sour cream, and milk. Mix everything well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This step is crucial as it melds all the flavors together, creating that rich taste associated with French onion dishes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef mixture and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir gently to ensure all the noodles are coated with the delicious sauce and beef. This will allow every layer of the casserole to be packed with flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Next, transfer the noodle and beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This cheese will melt beautifully in the oven, forming a delectable golden crust.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Once assembled, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 minutes. After this initial baking time, remove the foil and sprinkle the crispy French fried onions on top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until the topping is crispy and golden brown. The aroma will be heavenly by this point!
Step 7: Rest and Serve
After successfully baking the casserole, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to settle, making for a better serving experience. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and serve hot for a delightful meal.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Spices: Incorporate some thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to slightly undercook your egg noodles, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- For a depth of flavor, consider caramelizing onions separately and adding them with the beef.
- Add crispy French fried onions during the last 10 minutes to prevent burning and maintain crunchiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
- A glass of your favorite red wine pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
Tips
- To save time, prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the casserole just before baking.
- This dish can be easily made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and soup.
- For a creamier texture, you may add a bit more sour cream or cream cheese to the beef mixture.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread make excellent accompaniments to this hearty dish.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Simple French Onion Beef Casserole is a must-try recipe that provides a comforting escape at the end of a long day. Its ease of preparation and scrumptious flavors make it a top choice for families looking for delicious weeknight meals. We encourage you to experiment with variations and toppings to make it your own, and remember that it’s always a great idea to share with family and friends. Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you try this recipe, and let us know how your casserole turned out!
Print
Simple French Onion Beef Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of ground beef and creamy French onion sauce with tender egg noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups crispy French fried onions
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once the water is bubbling, add the wide egg noodles. Follow the cooking instructions on the package but remember to cook them for just 1 minute less than directed.
- While the noodles are cooking, take a skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and start browning it, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, it’s time to create that flavorful creamy sauce. Lower the heat slightly, and stir in the condensed French onion soup, sour cream, and milk.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef mixture and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir gently to ensure all the noodles are coated.
- Next, transfer the noodle and beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Once assembled, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 minutes.
- After successfully baking the casserole, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and serve hot.
Notes
Ensure that the beef is cooked through and nicely browned, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Protein: 25 g