Create a Comforting Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

Craving a hearty, flavor-packed pasta dish that will satisfy your comfort food cravings? Look no further than the Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake! This delightful casserole combines tender rotini pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy ranch-infused cheese sauce, all topped with melted cheddar for an irresistible baked masterpiece.

Pasta bakes have long been a favorite in households across the country, and for good reason. They offer the perfect balance of heartiness, creaminess, and convenience – a one-dish wonder that can feed the whole family. This Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake takes that comfort food concept to the next level, blending savory flavors and a gooey cheese topping for a dish that’s sure to become a new dinnertime staple.

Table of Contents

Ingredients in the Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

• 12 oz rotini pasta – The perfect pasta shape to hold onto all the delicious sauce and toppings.
• 1 lb ground beef – Lean beef adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Used to sauté the ground beef and vegetables.
• 1 cup sweet corn kernels – Fresh, frozen, or canned corn provides a nice pop of sweetness.
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced – Adds color, crunch, and a touch of sweetness.
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced – Complements the green bell pepper for a vibrant mix of peppers.
• 1/2 onion, diced – Sautéed onions lend savory depth to the dish.
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix – The secret flavor booster that ties everything together.
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened – Provides a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy, cool element to balance the other flavors.
• 1 cup milk – Helps create the smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – A combination of melty cheddar both in the sauce and on top.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Enhances the savory profile of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder – Complements the fresh onions with additional onion flavor.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – To season the beef and the overall dish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a fresh, herbal note.

How to Make the Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it cooks, until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan and season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and set the beef mixture aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, until they’re softened.

Prepare the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and milk over medium heat. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is velvety. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, the ground beef mixture, sweet corn kernels, sautéed vegetables, and the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Once the Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is out of the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving this comforting and flavorful pasta dish.

Tips for Perfecting Your Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

To ensure your Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake turns out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:

• Cook the pasta al dente – This will prevent it from becoming mushy in the bake.
• Thoroughly drain the excess fat from the ground beef – This will help avoid a greasy finished dish.
• Sauté the vegetables until just softened – You don’t want them to become too soft and mushy.
• Take the time to create a smooth, creamy cheese sauce – Melting the cream cheese and cheddar slowly will yield the best results.
• Bake the casserole until the top is golden and bubbly – This ensures the cheese is fully melted and the dish is heated through.
• Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving – This allows the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.

Nutritional Information for Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

This Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is a hearty, comforting dish, but it can also be made a bit healthier. By using lean ground beef, reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream, and low-fat cheddar cheese, you can cut down on the overall fat and calorie content. The sweet corn and bell peppers also add valuable vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the meal.

A single serving of this pasta bake contains approximately 560 calories, 32g of fat, 37g of carbohydrates, and 32g of protein. While it’s still a rich and indulgent dish, the balance of protein, complex carbs, and vegetables makes it a satisfying and nourishing option for the whole family.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Pancakes
• BBQ Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread Bowls
• Bacon Ranch Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks
• Bacon Ranch Chicken Taquitos

FAQs About the Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

Can I add other vegetables to the Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake?

Absolutely! This dish is versatile, allowing you to incorporate a variety of vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding diced zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or even broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to sauté any additional vegetables to ensure they are cooked through and maintain a good texture in the bake.

How long should I bake the Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake?

Typically, you should bake the dish for about 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of the baking dish. Look for a golden, bubbly top and ensure the dish is heated through. If you want a crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

What are some side dishes that pair well with this pasta bake?

This Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with light side dishes. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. You could also offer a side of steamed green beans or a simple coleslaw to add some crunch and balance the meal.

Can I prepare the Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance! Assemble the bake up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the refrigerator.

Enjoy this Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake as a comforting and satisfying dinner option for your family. The rich flavors and creamy, cheesy goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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