This Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet with Sweet Corn Magic is a one-pan wonder that brings together rich, creamy flavors with a satisfying crunch of sweet corn. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with comforting goodness. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to impress guests, this dish delivers in every bite.
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Pure Comfort: A Creamy Ranch Beef Skillet Recipe
Imagine tender beef, coated in a creamy, ranch-seasoned sauce, mingling with bowtie pasta and bursts of sweet corn. The savory richness of the beef balances perfectly with the slight tang of ranch seasoning, while the corn adds a touch of natural sweetness that makes every forkful irresistible.
Ingredients in Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet with Sweet Corn Magic
What You Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup frozen or fresh sweet corn
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Time to Cook
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Steps to Make It
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter or olive oil.
- Cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned.
- Stir in garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Make It Creamy
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Sprinkle in ranch seasoning mix and stir until blended.
4. Add Pasta & Cheese
- Fold in the cooked pasta and sweet corn.
- Let simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, comforting meal!
Make It Perfect
- For extra creaminess, add a touch of sour cream or cream cheese.
- Want more depth? A splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the beefy flavor.
- Balance the richness by serving with a side of light salad or roasted vegetables.
Mix It Up
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Try different pasta: Penne or rotini work well in place of bowties.
- Go spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a kick.
Perfect Partners
This dish pairs well with:
✅ Garlic bread – for soaking up that creamy sauce.
✅ Steamed broccoli – adds a fresh, healthy contrast.
✅ A crisp green salad – lightens up the meal.
Busy Day Hero
Only one pan needed! This quick and easy skillet meal is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but flavor is essential.
Work Ahead
- Meal prep tip: Cook the pasta and brown the beef ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Save Some For Later
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat: Add a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture.
Everyone’s Happy
This dish is kid-friendly, husband-approved, and perfect for sharing. The blend of flavors ensures everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
Good For You Too
- Protein-packed from the beef and cheese.
- Calcium-rich thanks to the creamy sauce.
- Balanced meal with pasta, protein, and veggies.
What to Serve with Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet with Sweet Corn Magic
This creamy, comforting skillet meal pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re looking for something light, crunchy, or complementary in flavor, here are some great options from your own website to serve alongside it.
Recommended Side Dishes
- Southern Cornbread Recipe – A classic side with a golden crust and a fluffy inside, perfect for soaking up the creamy ranch sauce.
- Best Quinoa Salad – A fresh and nutritious salad that balances the richness of the beef and pasta.
- Griddle Lo Mein Recipe – If you’re looking for a twist, this stir-fried noodle dish adds a flavorful contrast.
- Steak and Pepper Stir Fry Recipe – A bold, savory option for those who love an extra dose of protein and crunch.
These sides enhance the meal’s flavors while offering variety to suit different tastes at the table. Pair them up and enjoy a balanced, satisfying dinner! 🍽️
Easy Clean-Up
- One skillet, one pot – minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
- Use a non-stick pan for effortless cleaning.
Switch It Up
- Make it a casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for a golden, bubbly finish.
- Add veggies: Peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms bring more texture and nutrients.
Simply Perfect
This Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet is a cozy, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that belongs in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers pure comfort in every bite.
FAQs in Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet with Sweet Corn Magic
1. Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh corn works great-just cut it off the cob and add it directly to the skillet.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Try half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or coconut cream for a lighter version.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze without the pasta to prevent sogginess. Cook fresh pasta when reheating.
4. What cheese works best?
Cheddar is great, but Monterey Jack or Gouda adds a richer flavor.
5. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check the ranch seasoning ingredients.
6. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese.
7. Will this work with ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes.
A Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet You’ll Want to Make Again
This Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet with Sweet Corn Magic is a 30-minute, family-approved meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. Perfect for busy nights, it’s an easy one-pan dish that delivers comfort and convenience in every bite. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home! 🍽️✨

Creamy Ranch Beef Bowtie Skillet with Sweet Corn Magic
Equipment
- Essential Equipment:
- ✔ Large skillet or sauté pan – A deep non-stick or cast-iron skillet is best for cooking the beef and mixing all ingredients.
- ✔ Large pot – To boil the bowtie pasta until al dente.
- ✔ Colander – For draining the pasta.
- ✔ Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and breaking up the ground beef while cooking.
- ✔ Measuring cups and spoons – To measure out the broth, cream, seasonings, and cheese.
- ✔ Chef’s knife – For chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- ✔ Cutting board – To prepare the onion and garlic.
- ✔ Grater – If using a block of cheese instead of pre-shredded cheddar.
- Optional Equipment:
- ✔ Tongs or pasta spoon – For tossing the pasta in the sauce.
- ✔ Lid for the skillet – Helps to simmer and melt the cheese evenly.
- ✔ Serving spoon – For plating the creamy pasta.
- This minimal equipment list ensures easy cooking and quick cleanup, making this a perfect one-pan recipe for busy nights! 🍽️🔥
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz bowtie pasta farfalle
- 1 cup frozen or fresh sweet corn
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 packet 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add butter or olive oil, then cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned.
- Stir in garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Make It Creamy
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Sprinkle in ranch seasoning mix and stir until blended.
- Add Pasta & Cheese
- Fold in cooked pasta and sweet corn.
- Let simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, comforting meal!
Notes
For extra creaminess, add a touch of sour cream or cream cheese.
Enhance the beefy flavor with a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Balance the richness by serving with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Variations & Substitutions:
✅ Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
✅ Try different pasta: Penne or rotini work well in place of bowties.
✅ Add heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
✅ Make it a casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for a golden, bubbly finish.
✅ Dairy-free option: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use dairy-free cheese.
✅ Gluten-free alternative: Use gluten-free pasta and check the ranch seasoning ingredients.