Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet With Sweet Corn Recipe

Savory Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet With Sweet Corn Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand quick, satisfying meals like this creamy ranch beef bowtie skillet with sweet corn that combine comfort and convenience.

Tender beef mingles with perfectly cooked pasta in a luscious sauce that screams home-cooked goodness.

The ranch seasoning adds a tangy punch that makes every bite irresistible.

corn kernels bring a subtle sweetness and delightful texture to this one-pan wonder.

Busy families will love how effortlessly this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.

Each forkful promises a harmonious blend of rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

This skillet sensation is about to become your new go-to dinner solution.

How to Make Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Get your bowtie pasta dancing in a pot of bubbling water. Follow the package directions for perfect al dente pasta.

Scoop out a splash of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside for its flavor-packed journey.

Step 2: Sizzle the Beef

Warm up olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat.

Toss in the ground beef, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Drain away any extra grease and park the beef on the sidelines.

Step 3: Awaken the Aromatics

In the same skillet, dance some chopped onions and minced garlic around. Let them sizzle and become fragrant for 2-3 minutes, releasing their mouth-watering magic.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Ranch Sauce

Shake in the ranch seasoning mix, then pour in sour cream or heavy cream. Let the sauce bubble and mingle for a few minutes.

Stir in sweet corn for a burst of sunshine.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Welcome back the cooked beef to the skillet.

Toss everything in the creamy sauce with a flourish. Add the bowtie pasta and give it a good mix.

If the sauce looks too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to make it silky smooth.

Step 6: Cheese Blanket Magic

Sprinkle shredded cheese all over the dish like a cozy blanket.

Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt into gooey perfection for 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Finish and Feast

Scatter some chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh finish.

Serve this creamy, dreamy skillet while it’s hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips for Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet

  • Save that starchy liquid gold when draining pasta. It helps create a silky, smooth sauce and can rescue your dish if it gets too thick.
  • Choose ground beef with less fat (85/15 or 90/10) to reduce excess grease and keep the dish lighter.
  • Cover the skillet while melting cheese to ensure even, quick melting without drying out the dish.
  • Swap ranch seasoning with homemade mix using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder for a fresher taste.
  • Replace sweet corn with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a different flavor profile and added nutrition.

Variations on Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet

  • Vegetarian Ranch Pasta: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a meat-free version. Maintain the creamy ranch sauce and sweet corn for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
  • Spicy Southwest Skillet: Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, and swap ranch seasoning for taco seasoning. Top with pepper jack cheese for extra heat and zesty flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta and ensure ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free. Substitute wheat-based ingredients with certified gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.
  • Greek-Inspired Variation: Replace ranch seasoning with dried oregano and basil. Swap sweet corn for diced bell peppers and use feta cheese instead of shredded cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

Pairing Suggestions for Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet

  • Pair with Crisp Chardonnay: Select a medium-bodied Chardonnay with buttery notes that complement the creamy ranch sauce and cut through the richness of the beef.
  • Match with Garlic Bread Sidekick: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread alongside the skillet to soak up the delicious sauce and add a crunchy texture contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
  • Toss Green Garden Salad: Create a light, fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the heavy, creamy main course and provide a refreshing element.
  • Serve with Craft Beer Buddy: Choose a hoppy pale ale or amber beer that can stand up to the robust beef flavor and provides a crisp, slightly bitter counterpoint to the creamy ranch sauce.

Storage Tips for Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Transfer to a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Protect against freezer burn by using a tight-fitting lid or freezer bag.
  • Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
  • Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a lean alternative. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and seasoned similarly to ground beef.

  • What if I don't have ranch seasoning mix?

You can make a homemade ranch seasoning using dried herbs like dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to recreate the flavor profile.

  • Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy sauce, sweet corn, and cheesy topping make this a crowd-pleaser that children typically enjoy. The mild ranch flavor and pasta are very appealing to kids.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap regular bowtie pasta for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free ranch seasoning mix. Double-check all ingredient labels to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet with Sweet Corn That Wows

  • Craft a Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with heart-healthy avocados, fresh vegetables, and protein-rich feta, this salad delivers a knockout punch of nutrients in every delicious bite.
  • Create a Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish, this recipe adapts to any mealtime and satisfies different dietary preferences with its simple, customizable ingredients.
  • Elevate Your Salad Game: Elevate boring greens with a restaurant-worthy combination of textures and flavors, from crunchy nuts to creamy avocado and tangy dressing that transforms an ordinary salad into a gourmet experience.
  • Master Quick Preparation: With minimal chopping and a simple dressing that comes together in minutes, this salad offers maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort, making it ideal for busy people who want a delicious, nutritious meal.

Ingredients for Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful protein that provides the base for this delicious skillet meal.
Pasta:
  • Bowtie Pasta: A fun and playful pasta shape that catches the creamy sauce perfectly.
Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Sour Cream, Heavy Cream: These ingredients create a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pasta and beef.
  • Shredded Cheese: Adds a melty, gooey texture and extra flavor to the dish.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Onion, Garlic: These classic flavor enhancers provide a deep, savory base for the skillet meal.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the beef and other ingredients.
  • Ranch Seasoning Mix: Adds a tangy and herbal flavor profile to the entire dish.
Vegetables:
  • Sweet Corn: Brings a touch of sweetness and bright color to the creamy skillet meal.
Herbs and Garnish:
  • Parsley, Chives: Optional fresh herbs that add a pop of color and fresh flavor to the finished dish.
Cooking Liquid:
  • Olive Oil: Used to brown the beef and sauté the aromatics.
  • Pasta Water: Helps to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
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Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet With Sweet Corn Recipe

Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet With Sweet Corn Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy ranch beef bowtie skillet brings hearty comfort to weeknight dinners with its rich, tangy sauce and tender pasta. Packed with sweet corn and savory beef, this one-pan meal delivers delicious satisfaction you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
  • 8 ounces (227 grams) bowtie pasta
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) sweet corn, fresh or frozen

Dairy and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream or heavy cream
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheese, cheddar or your choice
  • 1 packet (28 grams) ranch seasoning mix

Aromatics and Cooking Ingredients:

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) reserved pasta water
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare bowtie pasta according to package directions at a rolling boil, maintaining precise cooking time. Set aside 1/4 cup starchy pasta water for potential sauce adjustment.
  2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (375°F).
  3. Introduce ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Thoroughly brown the meat, breaking into small crumbles.
  4. Drain excess fat from beef, transferring meat to a temporary plate.
  5. In the same skillet, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until aromatics release their fragrant essence.
  6. Incorporate ranch seasoning mix, then gently fold in sour cream or heavy cream, creating a smooth, velvety sauce.
  7. Allow sauce to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then fold in sweet corn kernels.
  8. Reintroduce browned beef to the skillet, thoroughly coating with creamy sauce.
  9. Add cooked bowtie pasta, tossing carefully to ensure even distribution of sauce and ingredients.
  10. If sauce appears too dense, gradually introduce reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
  11. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across the surface, covering skillet and allowing cheese to melt completely (approximately 2-3 minutes).
  12. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
  13. Serve immediately while piping hot, ensuring maximum flavor and texture enjoyment.

Notes

  • Select lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a cleaner, lighter dish.
  • Rinse pasta quickly under cold water after draining to prevent overcooking and maintain perfect texture.
  • Consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein-packed, lower-fat alternative that still provides creamy richness.
  • Customize the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or adjusting ranch seasoning intensity to suit personal taste preferences.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 610 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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