Ranchero
A hearty Mexican-inspired casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and melted cheese, perfect for satisfying family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, oil, garlic, salt, rice, onion, green pepper, chili powder, and tomatoes; mix in beans last.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes.
- Remove from oven, top with cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce. You can substitute instant rice with regular rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer more heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mix. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also brighten the dish. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Ranchero is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with a side of Black Bean Salad (Best If Made 2 Hours Prior To Serving) or a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast. Serve it with warm tortillas or over a bed of lettuce for a lighter option. For a complete meal, consider offering a side of guacamole or Mex-Tex Layered Dip to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Ranchero can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, which helps maintain the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ranchero contains roughly 1822 calories, with 30g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2214mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).
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 Ranchero ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the casserole and bake it when ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can save time on busy days.
What can I use instead of kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans, feel free to substitute them with black beans or pinto beans, which will provide a similar texture and taste. You can also use canned beans for convenience, just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! To make a vegetarian version of Ranchero, substitute the ground chuck with a meat alternative like lentils or textured vegetable protein. You can also add more vegetables such as mushrooms and zucchini to enhance the dish's heartiness while keeping it flavorful.
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).