Ranch House Casserole
Ranch House Casserole combines hearty ground beef with savory beans and a tangy chili sauce, all seasoned with onion soup mix and garlic salt. This comforting dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners with bold, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and scramble until cooked through but not browned.
- Add all the remaining ingredients to the skillet.
- Turn the heat to low and let the mixture heat and simmer until hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. If you're out of chili sauce, a combination of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce works as a great substitute. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version. Ensure the meat is not overcooked to keep it tender.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with cornbread for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh coleslaw. It's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ranch House Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. For best results, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ranch House Casserole contains roughly 1146 calories, with 8g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the point of simmering the ingredients, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply heat it on the stove or transfer it to the oven until heated through.
What can I substitute for kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans are excellent alternatives that will still provide great texture and flavor. You can also use cooked lentils for a different twist, which will blend nicely with the other ingredients.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Ranch House Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).