Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

This Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is a warm, comforting casserole that’s packed with bold, creamy flavors and a hearty texture. Ground beef, sweet corn, and tender rotini pasta are tossed in a tangy ranch and cheddar cheese sauce, then baked to perfection with a buttery breadcrumb topping. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner or potluck favorite that everyone will devour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A complete, filling meal in one dish
• Creamy ranch and cheddar flavor combo is irresistible
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Easy to prep ahead of time
• Customizable with your favorite add-ins or toppings
• Perfect for leftovers and meal prepping

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• rotini pasta
• ground beef
• ranch dressing
• sour cream
• shredded cheddar cheese
• sweet corn
• diced bell peppers
• garlic powder
• onion powder
• salt and pepper
• breadcrumbs
• melted butter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add diced bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Drain excess grease.
4. Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sweet corn.
5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
6. Add the cooked pasta and beef mixture to the bowl and toss until everything is well coated.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
8. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is melted and the topping is golden brown.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Cheese blend: Mix in pepper jack, Monterey jack, or mozzarella.
• Veggie-packed: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Different protein: Use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.
• Topping twist: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or French fried onions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a tightly wrapped baking dish or airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze it before baking?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight before baking or bake from frozen with extra time.

What pasta substitutes work well?

Penne, fusilli, or shells can replace rotini if needed.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?

Yes, drained canned corn works just as well.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or roasted veggies pair nicely with the richness of the casserole.

How can I make it lighter?

Use lean ground meat, low-fat cheese, and light sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Can I leave out the bell peppers?

Yes, you can omit them or replace with another veggie like onions or mushrooms.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all, but you can easily make it spicy by adding hot sauce or spicy cheese.

Will this feed a crowd?

Definitely! It serves 6 generous portions and can be doubled for larger groups.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is the definition of comfort food done right. It’s cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to dinner that’s both easy and satisfying. With endless ways to customize it and make ahead, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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