Rancho Grande
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining seasoned ground beef, pasta, and chili flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion to the meat and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in chili seasoning, tomato sauce, and water; simmer.
- Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain.
- Pour cooked macaroni into the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Stir in the meat sauce with the macaroni.
- Cover the mixture with slices of American cheese.
- Bake at 375°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you prefer a different cheese, cheddar or Monterey Jack can be great substitutes for American cheese. For a vegetarian version, swap the hamburger meat with black beans or lentils. You can also use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rancho Grande with a side salad or some garlic bread to complement the dish. For extra flavor, consider pairing it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top. This dish also goes well with a refreshing drink like iced tea. For more hearty options, browse more American recipes that incorporate similar ingredients.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rancho Grande contains roughly 393 calories, with 17g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2094mg per serving (91% 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 use different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for hamburger meat. You can also experiment with ground pork for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the meat. You can also use a spicier chili seasoning mix. For an extra kick, consider topping each serving with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce and cook the macaroni ahead of time. Assemble the dish in the baking dish and cover it tightly. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).