Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect comfort meal that combines creamy, cheesy pasta, hearty beef, and the irresistible zing of ranch, look no further than this Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole. It’s a bubbling, golden-topped casserole that brings together the sweetness of roasted corn, the robust flavors of garlic and butter, and the nostalgic hug of ranch seasoning—all tied neatly together with tender bowtie pasta. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, looking for a freezer-friendly weeknight dinner, or just want leftovers that taste even better the next day, this casserole deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this dish is how it transforms simple, familiar ingredients into a dish that tastes like it took hours of love and labor. Every ingredient in this Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole brings a layer of texture, richness, or fresh flavor to the party, making it impossible to stop at just one helping.
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta: The whimsical shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy ranch sauce and gooey cheese.
- Ground beef: Brings a savory, hearty base that turns this casserole into a true main course.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the garlic flavors bloom deliciously.
- Fresh garlic (minced): Nothing beats the aroma and depth fresh garlic brings to the mix.
- Ranch seasoning mix (1 packet): The magic ingredient—herby, tangy, and utterly craveable.
- Sour cream: For an ultra-creamy texture and a light tang that keeps everything luscious.
- Milk: Helps loosen the sauce and gives the casserole a smooth, silky consistency.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, cheesy comfort and a gorgeous golden top.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretchy cheesiness and a lovely melt on top.
- Roasted corn (fresh, canned, or frozen): Roasting brings out a smoky sweetness and bursts of flavor in every bite.
- Salt and black pepper: Seasoning is key; adjust to taste once everything’s combined.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a pop of fresh color and a hint of herbal brightness to finish it off.
How to Make Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Casserole Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish so nothing sticks later on. This means you’ll get those coveted crispy edges that make a casserole special and minimal cleanup afterward.
Step 2: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your bowtie pasta until al dente—about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions. Remember, the pasta will finish cooking in the oven, so you don’t want it too soft here. Drain and set it aside.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as you go. Drain any excess fat from the pan. This step builds the foundation of flavor in your Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole, so don’t rush it!
Step 4: Build the Garlic Butter Ranch Base
With the beef still in the skillet, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the butter gets dreamy and golden. Then, stir in the ranch seasoning, sour cream, milk, and roasted corn. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce turns glossy. Mix in 1 cup of cheddar cheese and let it melt into pure creamy goodness.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked, drained bowtie pasta to the skillet and gently stir to coat every nook and cranny. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking—it’s your casserole, so go for the flavor that makes you happiest.
Step 6: Assemble, Top, and Bake
Spoon the cheesy pasta and beef mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Finish with the remaining cheddar cheese and a layer of mozzarella for that signature casserole crust. Slide it into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving so the slices hold together beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole
Garnishes
Chopped parsley sprinkled over the top adds a fresh pop of green and a subtle herbal lift. For extra zip, try a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes or an extra grind of black pepper before serving. These simple finishes help the flavors shine and give the casserole an inviting look straight from the oven.
Side Dishes
This creamy casserole is a meal in itself, but a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette or some crisp roasted broccoli makes a delightful counterpoint. For extra comfort, serve with warm garlic bread or buttermilk biscuits—perfect for sopping up every bit of cheesy ranch sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or want to jazz up the weeknight dinner table, portion the Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole into individual ramekins before baking for a restaurant-style touch. Or, serve scoops inside warm bread bowls for a playful, crowd-pleasing presentation. It’s also a hit at potlucks when portioned into squares for easy plating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole keeps well for up to four days, making it a brilliant option for meal-prepping or next-day lunches. The flavors continue to develop and meld, making each reheated square just as cozy as the first.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap portions tightly in foil (or use freezer-safe containers) before freezing. It holds up beautifully for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melted again (about 15–20 minutes). If you’re short on time, a microwave gets the job done—just cover the slice loosely and check for bubbling hot cheese. Add a fresh sprinkle of parsley before serving to bring it back to life.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works wonderfully in Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole, you can use penne, rotini, or even macaroni—just keep the cooking time the same, and you’ll get great results.
What’s the best way to roast corn if I only have frozen?
No problem at all! Thaw the frozen corn, pat it dry to remove excess moisture, then cook it in a hot dry skillet for 5–7 minutes until lightly charred. This quick roasting step makes a big difference in adding smoky sweetness to your casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole up to one day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed.
Are there lighter options for the protein?
Certainly! Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner take. You might also enjoy using a plant-based ground “beef” for a vegetarian-friendly version that still packs tons of flavor.
How can I add a little heat to the casserole?
If you love a kick, add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or a swirl of hot sauce when stirring in the ranch seasoning. It will give your Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole a bold twist without taking away from its creamy, cheesy spirit.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so inviting about the warm, bubbly magic of a homemade casserole, and this Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole truly delivers. The blend of creamy ranch, savory beef, sweet roasted corn, and melty cheese will have your family and friends asking for seconds. I hope you’ll give it a whirl in your kitchen—you’re in for a delicious, feel-good treat!
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Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this comforting and flavorful Garlic Butter Ranch Beef and Roasted Corn Bowtie Casserole. A hearty dish that combines tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef, creamy ranch seasoning, and gooey melted cheese.
Ingredients
Bowtie Pasta:
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups roasted corn (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook pasta: Cook bowtie pasta until al dente, then drain.
- Prepare beef mixture: Brown ground beef in a skillet, add butter, garlic, ranch seasoning, sour cream, milk, roasted corn, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Mix in cooked pasta and transfer to casserole dish. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- To roast corn, cook kernels in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes until slightly charred.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
