This Easy French Onion Beef Casserole is a warm and comforting dish. It’s packed with tender beef, savory onions, and melted cheese all layered over noodles. Yum!
You’ll love how simple it is to make! Just mix everything together, bake it, and enjoy a big bowl of cozy goodness. Perfect for chilly nights or when you want the family to come together! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole. I prefer using lean ground beef to keep it less greasy. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes.
Onions: Yellow onions work best for caramelizing and provide great flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen chopped onions, but fresh is always more flavorful!
Swiss Cheese: I love Swiss for its smooth melting quality and flavor. If you can’t find it, feel free to use mozzarella or cheddar for a different enjoyable twist. Just keep in mind the cheese’s melting properties.
Egg Noodles: The classic choice here! If you have dietary needs, gluten-free pasta can be used instead. Alternatively, try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier base.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions can be a game-changer for this dish, bringing out their natural sweetness. The key is patience. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium heat, adding butter and oil to prevent burning.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt; stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes until they are deeply golden brown. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
Don’t rush this process! The sweet flavor of caramelized onions is worth the wait. I like to add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for extra richness, but that’s personal preference!
Easy French Onion Beef Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, and you’ll need about 25 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to table! Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something delicious without spending all evening in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Onions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and deep golden brown. This should take about 20-25 minutes. Once they’re done, remove the onions and set them aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the ground beef and the minced garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned, making sure to drain any excess fat once cooked. Season with thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, pour in the beef broth and the can of condensed French onion soup. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to combine all the flavors. Then, gently fold in the cooked egg noodles and the caramelized onions, stirring until everything is well mixed.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top, making sure to cover it nicely.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like a pop of color. Enjoy your warm, comforting casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy French Onion Beef Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that makes the dish a bit lighter. Just keep in mind that it might not have the same rich flavor as beef, so consider adding a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
What Can I Substitute for French Onion Soup?
If you don’t have condensed French onion soup, you can make your own! Combine 1 cup of beef broth with sautéed onions, a splash of soy sauce, and a bit of seasoning. Blend it for a similar flavor profile!
