Introduction
If you’re in search of a comfort dish that brings the whole family together, look no further than this Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake. This delightful casserole combines the savory goodness of ground beef, the sweet pop of corn, and the creamy richness of cheeses in one mouthwatering dish. It’s not just easy to make, but it also infuses your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that’ll have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner. Perfect for weeknight meals or lazy weekends, this pasta bake is bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; once done, drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked; drain any excess grease.
- To the skillet, stir in the ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, along with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the sweet corn, softened cream cheese, and beef broth to the mixture; stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Fold in the cooked rotini into the beef mixture, gently stirring until fully incorporated.
- Transfer the entire mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Generously top the bake with shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring an even coating over the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is all melted and bubbly, creating a delicious golden crust.
- Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color!
Notes or Tips
This dish is versatile; feel free to add in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. If you like a bit of heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
Brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop a rich flavor base for your dish. Don’t rush the melting of the cream cheese; this ensures a creamy texture that blends beautifully with the rest of the ingredients. Stirring gently ensures every bite is filled with that comforting cheesy goodness!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
Conclusion
This Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and comforting flavors, it’s sure to bring smiles all around the table. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this delightful dish that celebrates the joy of home cooking!