Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is a hearty and flavorful casserole that combines tender rotini pasta, savory ground beef, sweet corn, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.
Why I Love This Recipe
I appreciate this recipe for several reasons:
- Comfort Food: The combination of pasta, beef, and cheese creates a classic comfort dish that's both filling and delicious.
- Flavorful: The ranch seasoning adds a tangy twist, complementing the savory beef and sweet corn perfectly.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is convenient for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: It's easy to customize with different proteins or additional vegetables to suit various tastes.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rotini pasta
- Ground beef
- Ranch dressing
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sweet corn (frozen or fresh)
- Diced bell peppers
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Breadcrumbs
- Melted butter
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess grease.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ranch dressing, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, sweet corn, and diced bell peppers. Add the cooked beef and pasta, stirring until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4–6 servings.
- Prep Time: About 10 minutes.
- Cook Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
- Total Time: Around 40 minutes.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some heat.
- Different Pasta: Use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if rotini isn't available.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until heated through.
- Freezing: To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta. Just ensure to cook them al dente according to package instructions.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or peas to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative or omit them entirely.
What can I serve alongside this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole that's easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Whether you're looking for a hearty family dinner or a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with the delightful combination of beef and sweet corn in every bite.
Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is a cheesy, comforting casserole packed with tender pasta, savory ground beef, sweet corn, and creamy ranch flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or crowd-pleasing meals.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sweet corn (frozen or fresh)
- ½ cup diced bell peppers
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain excess grease.
- In a large bowl, mix ranch dressing, sour cream, cheddar cheese, corn, and bell peppers. Add cooked beef and pasta, and stir to combine.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Swap beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
