Ranchero Macaroni Bake

Indulge in the bold, southwest-inspired flavors of this Ranchero Macaroni Bake, a comforting casserole that's perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. This hearty dish combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a medley of black beans, corn, and bell peppers, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with a zesty ranch seasoning mix, cumin, and chili powder. Topped with a gooey blanket of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, this oven-baked masterpiece comes out bubbling with flavor. Easy to prepare in just under an hour, this recipe is finished with optional jalapeño slices and fresh cilantro for a vibrant kick. Ideal for feeding a crowd, this one-pan wonder offers a satisfying combination of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 medium bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 15 oz canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional garnish)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

Step 4

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Step 5

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), black beans, corn, tomato sauce, ranch seasoning mix, ground cumin, and chili powder. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the cooked macaroni until well combined.

Step 7

Transfer the macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 8

Top the mixture with an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.

Step 9

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced jalapeño and chopped cilantro, if desired.

Step 11

Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2736.4 grams (2736.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4672

Total Fat 217.20g	278%
Saturated Fat 104.00g	520%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 643mg	214%
Sodium 5487mg	239%
Total Carbohydrate 436.80g	159%
Dietary Fiber 54.40g	194%
Total Sugars 53.20g
Protein 252.00g	504%

Vitamin D 24IU	120%
Calcium 2778mg	214%
Iron 34mg	186%
Potassium 3948mg	84%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.5%

Protein: 21.4%

Carbs: 37.1%