Name: Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 1 pound ground beef; 3 cups pasta (penne or rotini); 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix; 4 oz cream cheese; 1 cup milk; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 29 reviews

If you are looking for a cozy dinner that brings the best of two worlds—tender chicken and savory ground beef—in one delightful dish, this Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of creamy ranch seasoning with perfectly cooked pasta, melted cheddar cheese, and a satisfying blend of tender meats. This recipe has become a favorite in many homes because it’s simple to make, incredibly tasty, and sure to please every member of the family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six steps of cooking chicken with vegetables in a black skillet on a white marbled surface. First, small browned pieces of chicken are spread in the skillet. Next, chopped mushrooms and green leafy vegetables are added on top, filling the skillet with white mushroom texture on one side and green leaves on the other. Then, the vegetables start to soften and steam rises, the green leaves turning darker. After that, the chicken pieces are mixed well with the cooked vegetables, showing a sizzling brown and green mix. In the fifth step, more cooked chicken is added back on top, resting in layers with mushrooms and greens underneath. Finally, the dish is fully mixed with a colorful harmony of browned chicken, dark green leaves, and soft mushrooms, all in the black pan. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Using common staples ensures you won’t need to run to a specialty store, and each element works together to create that unforgettable casserole experience.

Cooked chicken, diced: Adds tender, juicy chunks of protein that soak up the creamy ranch sauce beautifully.
Ground beef: Brings a savory depth and richness that balances the lighter chicken.
Pasta (penne or rotini): Provides a sturdy base with a nice bite, perfect for holding all the sauce and toppings.
Ranch seasoning mix: Turns the flavor profile tangy and herbaceous, the star seasoning of this dish.
Cream cheese: Creates a smooth, velvety texture that binds the casserole together.
Milk: Lightens the cream cheese mixture for a luscious sauce without heaviness.
Cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts to a gooey, golden topping that adds sharpness and richness.
Onion, diced: Provides sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed with the beef.
Garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that lifts every bite.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all flavors perfectly.

How to Make Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta

First, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F), so it’s ready for baking later. While the oven heats, cook your pasta according to the package directions—al dente is best here to keep texture after baking. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Aromatics

In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until it is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat carefully to avoid greasiness in the final dish.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Ranch Sauce

To the skillet with browned beef, stir in the cream cheese, milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. This luscious mix will coat the pasta and meats, carrying the ranch flavor through every bite.

Step 4: Combine All the Components

Transfer the cooked pasta and diced cooked chicken into the beef and sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is well coated and evenly distributed with chicken and beef. This step is crucial to ensure every spoonful delivers that comforting balance of flavors.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and slightly crispy around the edges.

How to Serve Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe

Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For a fresh pop of color and flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you like a touch of heat. These simple additions make the dish look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also complement it beautifully, adding texture and nutritional balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this chicken beef ranch casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Alternatively, a bread bowl filled with this casserole makes for a rustic and fun presentation that’s sure to impress at any casual gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. Your Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it a fantastic option for quick meals during the week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes exceptionally well. To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes until warmed through, which helps keep the cheese melty and the casserole bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions, but in shorter bursts to avoid drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or rotini work best for holding sauce, feel free to use shells, elbow macaroni, or even fusilli based on what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives, and use a ranch seasoning that is free from dairy to suit dietary needs.

Can I skip the ground beef and use only chicken?

Definitely! The ground beef adds a deeper flavor, but this casserole is just as satisfying with chicken alone if you prefer a lighter dish.

How spicy is the Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe?

It has a mild herbaceous flavor from the ranch seasoning with no heat unless you add spices like red pepper flakes or hot sauce yourself.

What’s the best way to get a crispy cheese topping?

For extra crispiness, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Beef Ranch Casserole Recipe is a wonderful blend of convenience and comfort, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Its creamy ranch flavor, hearty meats, and cheesy goodness make it a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your family’s favorites too!