Are you looking for a comforting, savory dish that combines the rich flavors of beef, cheese, and pasta? Look no further than the Buttery Parmesan Ranch Beef & Sweet Corn Pasta Casserole. This dish is a delightful fusion of hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and sweet corn, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s perfectly seasoned with ranch flavors. It’s an ideal meal for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the details of this satisfying casserole that promises to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
## Recipe: A Brief Description
The Buttery Parmesan Ranch Beef & Sweet Corn Pasta Casserole is a delightful combination of familiar ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Ground beef adds a hearty element, while the sweet corn provides a subtle sweetness that balances the savory components. The ranch seasoning mix gives it a unique, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery, cheesy sauce. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this casserole is baked to perfection, creating a bubbly, golden crust that’s irresistibly delicious.
## Ingredients
To create this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 12 oz bowtie pasta (or you can substitute with rotini or shells)
– 1½ cups sweet corn (you can use fresh, canned, or frozen)
– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or you can use cream of chicken for a different flavor)
– ½ cup sour cream
– 1½ cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
– 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ tsp black pepper
– Salt, to taste
– ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a little kick)
– Chopped parsley, for garnish
## Directions/Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare the Buttery Parmesan Ranch Beef & Sweet Corn Pasta Casserole:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13” baking dish and set it aside.
2. Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it reaches al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and slightly golden.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If necessary, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
5. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Allow it to cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
6. Add the sweet corn, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and homogeneous.
7. Carefully fold the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Add black pepper and smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. Adjust the salt to taste.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top it with the remaining mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
## FAQ
### Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe suggests bowtie pasta, you can easily substitute it with rotini, shells, or any other pasta of your choice. Just be sure to cook it to al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
### How can I make this casserole spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding more smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also use spicy ranch seasoning if available.
### Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
### Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the ground beef and substitute it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for an entirely vegetarian-friendly dish.
## Conclusion
The Buttery Parmesan Ranch Beef & Sweet Corn Pasta Casserole is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. Its rich, creamy sauce combined with the savory beef and sweet corn creates a balance of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is a reliable choice for a delicious, satisfying meal. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your culinary rotation. Enjoy every savory bite!