Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

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This Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is what comfort food dreams are made of. Rich, savory ground beef mingles with tender rotini pasta, golden sweet corn, and a generous layer of gooey, melted cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table, especially on chilly evenings when you want something hearty, homey, and loaded with flavor.

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Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings, this casserole-style bake is a crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss. The blend of textures—meaty, creamy, and cheesy—makes every bite deeply satisfying. Plus, it reheats like a dream, which makes leftovers just as enticing.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Bake?

Rotini pasta is ideal because its spiraled shape holds onto the cheesy, beefy sauce so well. You could also try penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni in a pinch—just go for a shape that hugs the sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

  • Ground Beef: Adds the hearty, savory base for the bake.
  • Rotini Pasta: Holds all that cheesy, meaty goodness in its curls.
  • Sweet Corn: Brings a juicy burst of sweetness and color.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melts into golden perfection on top.
  • Onion: Adds aromatic depth and a mild crunch.
  • Garlic: Gives the base a flavor kick.
  • Tomato Sauce: Ties all the ingredients together into a luscious sauce.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.
  • Paprika (optional): Adds a warm, smoky flavor.

How To Make the Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

Step 1: Prep and Boil

Boil the rotini pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Base

In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce and sweet corn. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Mix it All Together

Add the drained pasta to the skillet mixture. Stir everything to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour everything into a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.


Serving and Storing This Cheesy Delight

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if you like an extra layer of flavor. It’s a complete meal on its own but plays well with a crisp side salad or a slice of crusty bread.

To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake?

Crisp Green Salad

A fresh, tangy salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the bake.

Garlic Bread

Classic, crunchy, and buttery—perfect for scooping up cheesy bits.

Steamed Broccoli

A healthy green side that complements the hearty pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their nuttiness pairs well with the creamy, cheesy base.

Buttery Cornbread

Echoes the sweetness of the corn and adds a Southern flair.

Pickled Vegetables

A bright, acidic contrast that cuts through the richness.

Simple Cucumber Salad

Cool and refreshing to balance the warm, hearty casserole.


Want More Casserole Ideas That Hit the Spot?

If you loved this Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake, check out these other comforting casseroles:

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Save this comforting bake to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it fast when your family starts craving it again.

Tried a twist on this recipe? Maybe added some green chilies or swapped in pepper jack cheese? Let us know in the comments!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next dinner hero might be waiting there.


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Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake

Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

Looking for an easy dinner idea the whole family will devour? This Cheesy Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake is loaded with hearty ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, tender rotini pasta, and sweet bursts of corn—all topped with gooey melted cheddar. It’s one of those quick comfort food recipes that checks every box: cozy, satisfying, freezer-friendly, and perfect for weeknight meals. Whether you’re meal-prepping or craving a warm dish on a chilly evening, this cheesy casserole fits right in among your favorite easy recipes, food ideas, and dinner ideas.


Ingredients

12 oz rotini pasta

1 lb ground beef

1 cup sweet corn (frozen or canned and drained)

1 cup tomato sauce

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika (optional)


Instructions

1. Boil the rotini pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.

3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

4. Stir in the tomato sauce and sweet corn. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir until evenly coated.

6. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.

7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

8. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For added spice, stir in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: easy dinner, cheesy pasta bake, ground beef recipes, comfort food

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