French onion casserole is a hearty, bubbling one-pan dish that’s just bursting with flavor and crazy-easy to make. It combines noodles, crispy onions, and juicy beef for a casserole so good it’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
The best part? This recipe is all about shortcuts. I’m talking French onion dip as a secret ingredient that makes this the ultimate weeknight dinner win.
So toss the takeout menus and get ready for a family-approved, stress-free dinner that even your picky eaters will love.
We’ll cover everything from the must-have ingredients to some tips and tricks. It’s the kind of meal that brings the family running to the table and is the perfect weeknight dinner.
Looking for more casserole ideas? Try chicken parm casserole, stuffed bell pepper casserole, and walking taco casserole for more easy weeknight dinner ideas.
🥘Ingredient Notes
For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below
- Egg noodles: I’m partial to egg noodles for their tender, chewy goodness, but you can sub in your favorite pasta shape. Just keep an eye on the cooking time; nobody likes mushy pasta!
- Ground beef: Use lean ground beef so the casserole isn’t greasy.
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cream of mushroom soup
- French onion dip: This dip isn’t just for chips; it gives the casserole that irresistible onion flavor.
- French fried onions
- Parsley
🥣How to Make French Onion Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and spray your 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the noodles according to the package directions and drain them once they are done.
- While they cook, ground beef in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, stir in the cream of mushroom soup and French onion dip. Then, gently fold the egg noodles into the onion mixture.
- Into the baking dish it goes. Spread the crispy onions on top.
- Pop it in the preheated oven, uncovered, and let it bake for 20 minutes.
- Once done, you can garnish with parsley for a pop of green.
🍴Serving Ideas
This French Onion Casserole is a stand-alone star sure, but why not make it a meal to remember?
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad is the perfect sidekick. It’s like having a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich and creamy casserole. Toss some greens with a vinaigrette, and you’ve got yourself a meal that covers all the bases.
- Steamed Veggies: Keep it simple and healthy with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans.
- Garlic Bread: Because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a slice of garlicky, crusty bread? It’s the perfect tool for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce.
- A Glass of Red: For those 21 and over, a glass of your favorite red wine pairs beautifully with the beefy, oniony flavor.
💭How to Store
Make sure your casserole has cooled to room temperature. Then, spoon any leftovers into an airtight container. They’ll keep for about 3-4 days.
You can also freeze this casserole! Wrap it up tightly with foil or spoon it into freezer bags. It’ll stay good for a couple of months. When you’re ready to revisit casserole heaven, thaw it in the fridge if it’s been frozen, then warm it up in the oven or microwave.
⭐Tips
Be sure to check out the step by step instructions
- Not all French onion dips are created equal. Look for one that’s rich and creamy with a robust onion flavor. It’s the secret ingredient that makes this dish fabulous.
- While lean ground beef is my go-to, feel free to mix it up with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.
- If you’re a cheese lover (who isn’t?), sprinkle some shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese on top before baking. It’ll add a melty, gooey factor that’s straight-up irresistible.
- If you want to save time, double the recipe and freeze half for another night. Future you will be grateful.
- Pasta shapes are a playground. Go wild with whatever shape tickles your fancy.
📝Reader Questions
Absolutely! Assemble it all the way up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes since it’s starting cold.
No problem. Any pasta will do in a pinch. Just cook it al dente so it will hold up in the casserole.
Yes, for sure! Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or sautéed fresh mushrooms and lentils for a meaty texture without the meat.
You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
⭐Did You Make This? Leave a Star Rating!
French Onion Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 ounces dried egg noodles
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup 10 ounces each
- 1 jar Lays French onion dip 15 ounces
- 1/2 cup French fried onions
- Parsley optional
Instructions
- Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Cook the noodles according to the package directions and drain when done.10 ounces dried egg noodles
- While the noodles cook, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, crumbling the meat. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any grease leftover.1 pound lean ground beef, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper
- Stir in the cream of mushrooms and the onion dip until well mixed with the beef.2 cans cream of mushroom soup, 1 jar Lays French onion dip
- Add in the cooked egg noodles and mix those together as well.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish and sprinkle the fried onions all over top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.1/2 cup French fried onions
- Once done, top with parsley and serve.Parsley
Notes
- Look for a rich and creamy French Onion dip with a lot of onion flavor.
- Pick whatever pasta shape you like.
- Replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.
- Add some shredded Gruyere or Swiss on top before baking for a little gooey cheesiness.
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Nutrition Information
Nutrition facts are estimates.
