Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onion over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess fat.
Step 2: Combine the Casserole Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked beef, uncooked rice, soups, milk, ranch seasoning, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Stir until everything is fully mixed.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until rice is tender.
Step 4: Add the Final Cheese
- Remove foil, top with remaining ½ cup cheese.
- Return to oven and bake uncovered for 5–10 more minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired.
Notes
🥄 Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a can of diced green chiles or a pinch of cayenne Veggie Boost: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or broccoli Different Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Colby for extra flavor Cream-Free Version: Replace soup with sour cream and broth Chicken Swap: Use cooked shredded chicken instead of beef for a twist 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days Freezer: Freeze baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but parboil it first or increase the baking time. Do I have to use canned soup?
No—make a homemade roux or substitute with sour cream and broth. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely—assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. What if my rice isn’t fully cooked?
Cover again and bake 10–15 minutes longer. Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, but reduce baking time since rice is already cooked. Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soup and ranch mix, and check all labels. Can I add more cheese?
Always! Mix extra into the base or add more on top. Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use a larger baking dish or two 9x13 pans. What meat alternatives work?
Ground turkey or chicken are great swaps. Does this freeze well?
Yes—wrap portions individually for easy reheat meals. 🏁 Conclusion
Creamy, cheesy, and brimming with flavor, this Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is your answer to stress-free dinners. It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd, simple enough for a weeknight, and comforting enough to become a regular in your rotation. 🧀🍽️💛 Bake it once—and watch it disappear in seconds!
Spicy Kick: Add a can of diced green chiles or a pinch of cayenne Veggie Boost: Stir in frozen peas, corn, or broccoli Different Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Colby for extra flavor Cream-Free Version: Replace soup with sour cream and broth Chicken Swap: Use cooked shredded chicken instead of beef for a twist 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days Freezer: Freeze baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat in oven at 350°F until warmed through ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but parboil it first or increase the baking time. Do I have to use canned soup?
No—make a homemade roux or substitute with sour cream and broth. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely—assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. What if my rice isn’t fully cooked?
Cover again and bake 10–15 minutes longer. Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, but reduce baking time since rice is already cooked. Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soup and ranch mix, and check all labels. Can I add more cheese?
Always! Mix extra into the base or add more on top. Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use a larger baking dish or two 9x13 pans. What meat alternatives work?
Ground turkey or chicken are great swaps. Does this freeze well?
Yes—wrap portions individually for easy reheat meals. 🏁 Conclusion
Creamy, cheesy, and brimming with flavor, this Cheesy Ranch Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is your answer to stress-free dinners. It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd, simple enough for a weeknight, and comforting enough to become a regular in your rotation. 🧀🍽️💛 Bake it once—and watch it disappear in seconds!