Are you searching for a hearty and flavorful meal that can be easily prepared with minimal effort? Look no further! Our Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole is the perfect dish for busy families who crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. This mouthwatering casserole combines tender ground beef, zesty ranch seasoning, and rich barbecue sauce, resulting in a dish that is as delicious as it is easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
This recipe is not only ideal for weeknight dinners, but it is also great for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings. The best part? You can set it and forget it! Simply prepare the ingredients in the morning, let your slow cooker do the work, and come home to a delightful aroma that will make your mouth water. Whether served with a side salad or some warm cornbread, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with our Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole. Here are just a few:
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of barbecue sauce and ranch seasoning creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. This casserole is packed with taste, ensuring that every bite is a delight.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish prepped and ready to cook. There’s no complicated assembly or fancy techniques required just mix, cook, and enjoy!
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize this recipe! You can add your favorite veggies, swap out the cheese, or even use different proteins like chicken or turkey. The possibilities are endless!
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from black beans and corn, this casserole is a wholesome meal that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Leftover Friendly: This casserole tastes great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or taking to work for lunch. You can easily reheat it for a quick and delicious meal.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re still on the fence about trying our Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole, here are some compelling reasons to give it a shot:
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this casserole! It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors while still keeping things familiar and comforting.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and canned ingredients are affordable and easy to find, making this a great option for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality.
- Time-Saving: With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with family and friends. Set it in the morning, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is an excellent choice that can easily feed a crowd.
- Delicious Leftovers: Not only is it great fresh, but the flavors deepen and improve the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
To whip up this delicious Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: additional barbecue sauce for drizzling
Recommended Tools or Utensils
- Large skillet (for browning the ground beef)
- Slow cooker
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife (for chopping green onions)
- Serving spoon (for serving the casserole)
Detailed Recipe Steps
Ready to create your Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole? Follow these simple steps:
- Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet. This step is crucial for ensuring that your casserole doesn’t become greasy.
- Mix in Seasoning: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the cooked beef. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld. The ranch seasoning will enhance the beef and add a delicious flavor base.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the seasoned beef, barbecue sauce, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juice), cooked rice, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined for an even flavor throughout the casserole.
- Cook in Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until heated through and flavors have developed. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will blend, creating a rich and savory dish.
- Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover and allow the cheese to melt. This will create a gooey and delicious topping that adds to the overall flavor and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted, sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve hot, drizzling with additional barbecue sauce if desired. This adds a nice touch of freshness and flavor to the dish.
FAQs
What is the cooking time for Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole?
You can cook the Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, depending on your schedule. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables. It’s a complete meal in itself, but these sides can add variety to your dinner.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! The Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
How can I customize this recipe?
You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables, using different types of cheese, or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste. It’s a versatile recipe!
Conclusion
In summary, the Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines ease of preparation with incredible taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests without breaking a sweat. So why not give it a try? We’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Don’t forget to leave a comment or share this recipe with your friends. For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or follow us on Pinterest.
Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Beef Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the cooked beef. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld.
- In the slow cooker, add the seasoned beef, barbecue sauce, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes (with juice), cooked rice, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until heated through and flavors have developed.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
- Once the cheese is melted, sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve hot, drizzling with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
