Ingredients
Meat and Poultry
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 lb ground beef
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Dairy
- 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne work well)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking during the baking process.
- Brown Ground Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, to enhance the savory flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, beef and onion mixture, cooked pasta, ranch dressing, cream of chicken soup, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all components.
- Add Cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the mixture, ensuring even incorporation of the cheese for a creamy texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the greased baking dish to allow uniform cooking.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top to create a golden, bubbly crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt ranch for a lighter option.
- This casserole reheats well and freezes nicely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American