Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Bake is a hearty and delicious dish that brings comfort food to a new level. With tender ground beef, savory ranch flavors, and creamy cheese, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. It’s simple to prepare and combines classic pasta and beef flavors that everyone loves. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
How to Make Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups rotini pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and milk over medium heat. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rotini pasta, beef mixture, sweet corn, and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread evenly, and sprinkle more cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Bake
This cheesy pasta bake is best served hot and bubbly straight from the oven. You can enjoy it as a complete meal on its own or pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle extra fresh parsley on top before serving.
How to Store Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Bake
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use an airtight container or freezer bag.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Bake
- For a creamier texture, you can add more cream cheese or sour cream.
- Try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
- If you like spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and refrigerate the assembled dish for up to a day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
2. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The cheesy and savory flavors make it appealing to kids. You can also adjust the ranch seasoning to suit their taste.
3. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like! Whether it’s penne, fusilli, or macaroni, it will still work out deliciously.
Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and milk over medium heat. Stir until cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and continue stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rotini pasta, beef mixture, sweet corn, and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread evenly, and sprinkle more cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
