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Perfect Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef Casserole

Perfect Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef Casserole in 30 Minutes

Enjoy this comfort food with savory ground beef, creamy cheeses, and zesty ranch seasoning in just 30 minutes as the Perfect Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef Casserole.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 4 minutes
Total Time 34 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef lean, 90% or higher
  • 12 ounces pasta Rotini, Penne, or Fusilli, slightly undercooked
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, sharp preferred
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning or homemade
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegan option
  • 1 cup frozen peas or any other frozen vegetables
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed chips for topping
Optional Topping
  • 1 cup additional cheddar cheese for extra gooeyness
  • herbs or spices fresh parsley or paprika for flavor

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until slightly underdone, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1.5 pounds of ground beef for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft.
  3. Drain excess grease from the beef mixture. Stir in ranch seasoning and chicken broth, simmering for 2-3 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, frozen peas, and 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with an additional cup of cheddar cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs over it.
  6. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, then broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 3-4 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F covered with foil.

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