Description
This Beefy Rice-a-Roni Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish combining savory ground beef, flavorful Rice-A-Roni, creamy soup, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy French fried onions. Perfect for a family dinner, it boasts a satisfying blend of textures and flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 lb lean ground beef
Main Ingredients
- 1 (6.8-oz) box Beef Rice-A-Roni
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (6-oz) container French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Pre-heat oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Prepare Rice-A-Roni: Prepare the Beef Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions, ensuring the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
- Cook Ground Beef: While the rice cooks, brown the lean ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, the prepared Rice-A-Roni, and the unsalted cream of chicken soup until evenly mixed. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, then add a generous layer of French fried onions for a crunchy topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the onions are golden brown, indicating everything is heated through and deliciously combined.
Notes
- Using unsalted cream of chicken soup helps control sodium levels in the dish.
- Drain the ground beef well to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
- The French fried onions add a crunchy texture contrast, do not skip them.
- Leftovers keep well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or diced bell peppers in step 4 for added nutrition and flavor.
