Experience the comforting flavors of Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, a dish that brings together simplicity and satisfaction in every bite. This hearty casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, combining tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a blend of creamy cheeses, all infused with the zesty goodness of ranch seasoning. It’s a one-dish meal that not only pleases the palate but also makes cleanup a breeze.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the cheese to suit your family’s preferences. With just a few pantry staples, including ground beef, cooked rice, and ranch dressing mix, you can create a deliciously cheesy dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Preparation is straightforward—simply brown the beef, mix in the ingredients, and let the oven do the work. In under an hour, you’ll have a bubbling casserole topped with melted cheese, ready to serve. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting texture. Dive into this delightful dish and enjoy the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and ranch flavor that makes every bite irresistible!
Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Savory Cheesy Ranch Beef and Rice Bake
Ingredients:
8 slices bacon, chopped
1 lb lean ground beef
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 cup instant rice
10.5 oz condensed cheddar soup
1 1/4 cups milk
1 oz ranch dressing mix
3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 1/4 cups chopped green onions
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook chopped bacon until browned and crispy. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate with a slotted spoon.
In the same skillet, add ground beef and cook until browned, crumbling it as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Remove skillet from heat and stir in instant rice.
Add condensed cheddar soup, milk, and ranch dressing mix, stirring well.
Mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheese, 1 cup of the chopped green onions, and two-thirds of the cooked bacon.
Transfer mixture to a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
Cover with foil and bake in the oven for 40 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheese and cooked bacon pieces on top, and return to the oven.
Bake uncovered until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted, about 5-10 minutes.
Let rest for a few minutes before sprinkling with the remaining green onions.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutesKcal: 609 kcal | Servings: 6 servings