The Ultimate Comfort Food for Busy Families
If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that the whole family will love, this Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect recipe for you. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also budget-friendly and requires minimal clean-up—making it an ideal choice for families, meal preppers, and anyone craving a satisfying homemade meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Minimal prep time and simple steps make this dish a breeze to whip up.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
- One-Dish Wonder – Everything bakes together in one casserole dish, cutting down on clean-up.
- Customizable – Easy to tweak with different proteins, cheeses, or veggies.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for meal prepping or freezing for later.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft (about 5-7 minutes). Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Drain any excess grease.
3. Combine Ingredients
Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Italian seasoning, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix everything well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
5. Bake
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add Cheese Topping
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the casserole in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute increments until warm.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Use a Different Protein – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
- Make it Spicier – Add chopped jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Option – Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and substitute black beans or lentils for the ground beef.
- Swap the Cheese – Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a new flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies – Stir in diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrients.
What to Serve With Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This dish pairs well with:
- Steamed Vegetables – Green beans, broccoli, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Side Salad – A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- A Glass of Red Wine – If you’re indulging, a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just increase the bake time by 5-10 minutes if baking from cold.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes and may need a little extra broth.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use lean ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Adding extra veggies also boosts nutrition.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can make a homemade version using 1 cup milk, 1 tbsp flour, and 1 tbsp butter, cooked together until thickened. Add in sautéed mushrooms for flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty flavors that the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or freezing for later, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
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