If you are craving a cozy, delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender shredded chicken and savory ground beef, all wrapped up in creamy ranch-seasoned goodness with melted cheddar cheese on top. Every bite brings together hearty, comforting flavors and a satisfying texture that makes it perfect for family dinners or anytime you want something truly comforting and easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the rich ranch seasoning to the creamy soup and sharp cheddar, these components come together simply yet brilliantly.
- ½ lb ground beef: Adds savory depth and a juicy bite that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken: Brings tenderness and moisture, balancing the beef nicely.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup: Provides the creamy base that holds everything together seamlessly.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and richness to lighten the heaviness of the casserole.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: The star of the show, infusing the dish with that iconic, herby ranch flavor.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharpness and gooey meltiness that makes this dish irresistibly cheesy.
- 3 cups cooked pasta or rice: Acts as the satisfying starch that soaks up all the creamy sauce and flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in every ingredient.
How to Make Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the ground beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef. This step builds a rich, meaty base for your casserole. Remember to drain any excess grease so your casserole doesn’t turn greasy but remains perfectly moist.
Step 2: Mix the creamy goodness
In the same skillet, after the beef is drained, stir in the shredded chicken, the can of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. This combination is what makes the sauce creamy and packed with that signature ranch tang. Adding half of the cheddar cheese here helps create an irresistibly melty mixture.
Step 3: Incorporate pasta or rice
Next, fold in your cooked pasta or rice. This ingredient brings heartiness to the dish and soaks up all the delicious ranch creaminess. Mixing it thoroughly ensures every bite is full of flavor and texture.
Step 4: Assemble and bake
Transfer everything into a casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. This cheese layer bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection that adds a wonderful finishing touch. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
How to Serve Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of chopped green onions or crispy cooked bacon bits scattered on top after baking adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor, elevating this comforting casserole even more.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. These sides add a refreshing crunch and balance the richness of the ranch and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family gathering or potluck, serve this Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. It’s such a crowd-pleaser, and presenting it in personal portions makes it feel extra special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and tastes fantastic when reheated, as the flavors continue to meld together.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. To freeze, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly. You might want to add a little extra cheese on top for that fresh-out-of-the-oven vibe.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a sharp, classic flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a gooier texture or pepper jack for a little kick.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it well and thaw it in the fridge before cooking for best results.
Can I substitute pasta with rice?
Definitely! Both pasta and rice work wonderfully in this recipe. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand, as both will soak up the sauce deliciously.
How spicy is this Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe?
This recipe has a mild, tangy ranch flavor without any heat. If you like spicy food, try adding a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce when mixing the creamy base.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Adding vegetables like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas can boost nutrition and add more texture. Just toss them in with the other ingredients before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace after a long day. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and endlessly customizable to your taste. Give it a go, and I promise it will become a favorite in your dinner rotation — comfort food at its very best.
Print
Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A hearty, creamy casserole layered with ground beef, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning, offering a comforting and flavorful family dinner that’s easy to prepare and bake.
Ingredients
Meats
- ½ lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
Dairy & Pantry
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (about 10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3 cups cooked pasta or rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the browned ground beef, cooked shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Add Pasta or Rice: Fold in the cooked pasta or rice into the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Add cooked bacon or chopped green onions for extra flavor and texture variations.
- This recipe works well using leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- Feel free to use either pasta or rice based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
