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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of a casserole. The Cheesy Ranch Ground Turkey Casserole is a standout choice, combining rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and the convenience of a one-dish meal. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body, making it a beloved option for families and gatherings alike. With its creamy texture, savory notes, and cheesy goodness, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Cheesy Ranch Ground Turkey Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with the Cheesy Ranch Ground Turkey Casserole, a one-dish wonder that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly recipe features ground turkey, hearty pasta, black beans, sweet corn, and of course, melted cheese for that creamy texture we all love. Easily customizable to suit dietary needs, it's sure to impress everyone at the dinner table—making it a staple in your meal rotation!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1 cup uncooked pasta (elbow or rotini)

1 cup ranch dressing

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup green onions, finely sliced for garnish

Optional: crushed tortilla chips for topping

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.

      Brown the Ground Turkey: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground turkey. Use a spatula to break it apart, cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there's excess fat, drain it to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

        Combine Ingredients: In the skillet with the browned turkey, incorporate the ranch dressing, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture well and allow it to simmer together for about 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors blend.

          Add Pasta and Cheese: Carefully fold the cooked pasta and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the turkey mixture, mixing until everything is evenly combined and incorporated.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a brush of oil. Pour the turkey and pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

              Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. For an extra layer of texture, you can add crushed tortilla chips on top.

                Bake the Casserole: Carefully place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese has melted and turned a lovely golden brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh and vibrant touch. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 servings