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King Ranch Joes Recipe: A Savory Twist on a Texan Classic Sandwich

King Ranch Joes Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food


  • Author: Camily
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

If you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal, this King Ranch Joes Recipe is perfect! A savory and cheesy Texan-inspired twist on the traditional King Ranch Casserole, these King Ranch Joes are a delicious sandwich that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, spicy Rotel tomatoes, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish combines the flavors of the beloved casserole in a handheld, easy-to-serve form. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual gatherings with friends. Whether you’re looking to make a quick weeknight meal or prep something for a weekend feast, King Ranch Joes are guaranteed to be a hit.


Ingredients

Scale

Here’s what you’ll need to make King Ranch Joes:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken for a lighter option)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1 package taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning mix)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 burger buns or sandwich rolls

Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional):

If you’d like to make your own taco seasoning instead of using a packet, here’s a quick recipe:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your King Ranch Joes:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and bell pepper. If you’re using canned mushrooms, drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
  2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the ground beef (or chicken) to the pan. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
  3. Season and Add Soups: Once the meat is fully browned, add your taco seasoning (or homemade spice mix). Stir well to coat the meat. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup and Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, mixing thoroughly. Let this simmer for 5-10 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
  4. Add Mushrooms and Cheese: If you’re using mushrooms, stir them into the mixture now. Next, add both shredded cheeses (cheddar and Monterey Jack). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture becomes creamy and thick.
  5. Assemble the Joes: Lightly toast your burger buns or sandwich rolls. Spoon a generous portion of the filling onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with more cheese if desired, then place the top half of the bun on top to complete the sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Storage: You can store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or microwave before serving.
  • Freezing: If you’d like to make a large batch, the filling can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Make It Spicier: If you enjoy a bit more heat, add some jalapeños to the filling, or use a spicier version of Rotel tomatoes.
  • Vegetarian Option: To make this a vegetarian dish, swap the ground beef with tofu, tempeh, or lentils. You can also skip the cheese for a dairy-free version.
  • Whole Wheat Buns: For a healthier option, opt for whole wheat buns to increase fiber intake.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g