French Onion Beef Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With rich flavors of caramelized onions, savory beef, and a crispy fried onion topping, this casserole brings the beloved French onion soup flavors into a satisfying one-pan meal.
Overview of the Recipe
This casserole combines ground beef, caramelized onions, and a savory broth, mixed with egg noodles and topped with crispy fried onions. The result is a delicious and filling dish that is easy to prepare and sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
History and Origin
The origins of this dish draw inspiration from French onion soup, a staple in French cuisine known for its rich onion flavor and cheesy crouton topping. By incorporating these elements into a casserole, this recipe adapts a classic into a more substantial, main-course format suitable for various occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups (720 g) beef broth
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) condensed French onion soup
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles
- 6 ounces crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet (12-inch preferred) over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions. Sauté the onions for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are very tender and have a rich caramel color.
- Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Sprinkle in the onion soup mix, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture, breaking the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Broth and Soup: Pour in the beef broth and the condensed French onion soup. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add Noodles: Add the wide egg noodles to the skillet, pressing them down to ensure they are fully submerged in the liquid. This step is crucial to ensure the noodles cook evenly.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Final Touch: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole.
- Serve: Serve the casserole hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish.
Serving
This casserole serves approximately 6-8 people, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
- Beverages: Complement with non-alcoholic drinks like iced tea, sparkling water, or a light lemonade.
Variations of the Recipe
- Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Cheesy: Add a layer of shredded cheese (such as Gruyère or Swiss) on top before adding the crispy fried onions. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Spicy: For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Health Benefits Notes
- Protein: This casserole is high in protein due to the beef and egg noodles, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber: Onions are a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion.
- Iron: Beef is rich in iron, crucial for maintaining healthy blood cells.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the crispy fried onions. Let it cool, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven and add the fried onions just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Absolutely. Store the leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
French Onion Beef Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of French onion soup with hearty beef and noodles. It’s an easy and versatile recipe perfect for any occasion, offering a warm, satisfying meal for the whole family. Enjoy the rich flavors and ease of preparation that make this casserole a favorite in many households.