Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or deep casserole pan.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned, breaking into crumbles.
- Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine Casserole Base
- In a large bowl, mix together rice, ranch seasoning, cream soup, broth, and sour cream until well combined.
- Fold in the cooked beef mixture and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake
- Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for 10–12 more minutes, until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, then scoop and enjoy warm.
Notes
🥄 Variations
Chicken Swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef Low-Carb: Substitute cauliflower rice Creamier Version: Add ½ cup cream cheese into the mix Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ tsp chili powder or canned jalapeños Veggie Boost: Add frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers into the casserole 🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole covered for up to 4 days Freezer: Freeze in portions (without garnish) for up to 2 months Reheat: Microwave or cover and bake at 350 °F until warmed Prep Tip: Mix everything and refrigerate the night before; bake next day ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but add ~10 mins to bake time and use more broth. Is ranch seasoning necessary?
It’s key for flavor—but you can mix garlic powder, dill, and onion powder as a substitute. Can I double this recipe?
Yes—use a 9×15 pan and adjust bake time accordingly. Can I use shredded mozzarella instead?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend works well. Is sour cream essential?
Yes—it helps create a creamy texture and adds tang. Can I add bacon?
Sure—cooked bacon makes it even more indulgent. Can kids help make this?
Yes—they can stir ingredients and sprinkle cheese. What goes well with this?
Try a green salad, steamed veggies, or roasted broccoli. Can I use leftover rice?
It changes texture—uncooked rice gives best results. Any vegetarian version?
Use plant-based beef crumbles and vegetable broth + omit cheese or use dairy alternative. 🏁 Conclusion
Global comfort in a single dish: this Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole brings creamy, cheesy, flavorful satisfaction with minimal effort. It's a permanent keeper—for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and my freezer meal rotation! Serve it warm, garnish it fresh, and enjoy dinner without the fuss.
Chicken Swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef Low-Carb: Substitute cauliflower rice Creamier Version: Add ½ cup cream cheese into the mix Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ tsp chili powder or canned jalapeños Veggie Boost: Add frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers into the casserole 🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole covered for up to 4 days Freezer: Freeze in portions (without garnish) for up to 2 months Reheat: Microwave or cover and bake at 350 °F until warmed Prep Tip: Mix everything and refrigerate the night before; bake next day ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but add ~10 mins to bake time and use more broth. Is ranch seasoning necessary?
It’s key for flavor—but you can mix garlic powder, dill, and onion powder as a substitute. Can I double this recipe?
Yes—use a 9×15 pan and adjust bake time accordingly. Can I use shredded mozzarella instead?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend works well. Is sour cream essential?
Yes—it helps create a creamy texture and adds tang. Can I add bacon?
Sure—cooked bacon makes it even more indulgent. Can kids help make this?
Yes—they can stir ingredients and sprinkle cheese. What goes well with this?
Try a green salad, steamed veggies, or roasted broccoli. Can I use leftover rice?
It changes texture—uncooked rice gives best results. Any vegetarian version?
Use plant-based beef crumbles and vegetable broth + omit cheese or use dairy alternative. 🏁 Conclusion
Global comfort in a single dish: this Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole brings creamy, cheesy, flavorful satisfaction with minimal effort. It's a permanent keeper—for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and my freezer meal rotation! Serve it warm, garnish it fresh, and enjoy dinner without the fuss.