Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious, look no further than the Ooey-Gooey Cheddar Ranch Beef & Corn Bowtie Bake. This dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, sweet corn, and a creamy, cheesy ranch sauce, this bake is destined to become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a busy household or looking for a dish to impress at a potluck, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Recipe
The Ooey-Gooey Cheddar Ranch Beef & Corn Bowtie Bake is a one-dish wonder that combines the hearty goodness of ground beef and pasta with the tangy flavors of ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese. The addition of sweet corn offers a pleasant contrast, while the creamy sauce ties everything together in a comforting embrace. It’s a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
To bring this delicious bake to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 10 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
– 1½ cups sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of cheddar soup (or cream of mushroom as a substitute)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Directions/Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by preparing the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente perfection, drain the pasta and set it aside. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so avoid overcooking at this stage.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 6–8 minutes. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Return the beef to the skillet and stir in the garlic powder, black pepper, and ranch seasoning mix. This blend of spices will infuse the beef with a robust flavor that forms the backbone of the dish.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of cheddar soup, and milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Add 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce and mix until incorporated. Finally, add the sweet corn and stir to combine. This creamy, cheesy sauce is what gives the bake its irresistible ooey-gooey texture.
Step 4: Combine
Add the cooked ground beef and bowtie pasta to the sauce mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to mix everything together until the pasta and beef are fully coated with the sauce. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the pasta and beef mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top the mixture with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, then sprinkle smoked paprika over the top for a pop of color and additional flavor.
Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, adding a fresh touch that brightens the dish. Serve the bake warm, and watch as your family or guests dig into this delectable creation.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is recommended for its texture and ability to hold the sauce, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni.
2. What can I use instead of cream of cheddar soup?
If you can’t find cream of cheddar soup, cream of mushroom soup is a great substitute that adds a different but equally delicious flavor.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
4. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat or additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Conclusion
The Ooey-Gooey Cheddar Ranch Beef & Corn Bowtie Bake is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and flavor that brings people together. This dish is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to prepare. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a bake that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.