Creamy Ranch Gemelli Bake
Indulge in this creamy and delicious Ranch Gemelli Bake, a twist on classic macaroni and cheese that's loaded with flavor. Using Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® Dressing, this dish combines the richness of asiago cheese with a unique ranch flavor profile. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun potluck dish, it can be prepared quickly and is ready in less than 30 minutes. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, ensuring that every bite is a satisfying experience. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
6
Servings
385
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Unseasoned breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (Plain)
Evaporated milk
1 (5 ounce) can (None)
Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® Dressing
1 cup (None)
Eggs
2 (Slightly beaten)
Unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (Melted)
Gemelli pasta
3 cups (Cooked and drained)
Grated asiago cheese
3 cups (Grated)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gemelli pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, Hidden Valley® Original Ranch® Dressing, and beaten eggs until fully combined and smooth.
4
Gently fold in the grated asiago cheese, ensuring the cheese is distributed evenly throughout the mixture.
5
Add the cooked and drained gemelli pasta to the cheese mixture, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
6
Pour the pasta mixture into an oiled 1½-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
7
In a separate small bowl, combine the unseasoned breadcrumbs with the melted unsalted butter. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
8
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of the pasta.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is heated through.
10
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy Ranch Gemelli Bake!
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
32g
Carbs
14.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Ranch Gemelli Bake?
It is a creamy and delicious twist on classic macaroni and cheese that features the unique flavor of ranch dressing combined with rich asiago cheese.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for gemelli pasta, which should be cooked al dente and drained.
Which brand of ranch dressing is recommended?
The recipe suggests using Hidden Valley Original Ranch Dressing for the best flavor profile.
How many servings does this dish provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What is the total preparation and cook time?
The dish is designed to be a quick meal and is ready in less than 30 minutes.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350 F or 175 C.
What kind of cheese is used in this gemelli bake?
The recipe uses 3 cups of grated asiago cheese.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 385 calories.
What are the nutritional facts for fat and protein?
One serving contains 20g of fat and 14.5g of protein.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 32g of carbohydrates per serving.
What size casserole dish is required?
You will need an oiled 1 -quart casserole dish.
How do I prepare the breadcrumb topping?
Combine 1/2 cup of unseasoned breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter until evenly coated.
Should the pasta be rinsed after boiling?
Yes, rinse the pasta under cold water after draining to stop the cooking process.
How long does the dish need to bake?
Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes.
How do I know when the bake is finished?
The dish is done when the top is golden brown and the entire meal is heated through.
What kind of milk should I use?
The recipe requires one 5-ounce can of evaporated milk.
How many eggs are included in the recipe?
Two eggs, slightly beaten, are used to help bind the sauce.
Can I use seasoned breadcrumbs instead?
The recipe specifically calls for plain unseasoned breadcrumbs to avoid clashing with the ranch and asiago flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for potlucks?
Yes, it is described as a fun potluck dish that is easy to prepare and popular with guests.
Is the butter used in the topping salted or unsalted?
You should use unsalted butter for the breadcrumb mixture.
How is the sauce base created?
Whisk together the evaporated milk, ranch dressing, and beaten eggs until smooth before adding cheese.
What are the main tags associated with this recipe?
Key tags include ranch, macaroni and cheese, pasta bake, comfort food, and quick meal.
Should the cheese be mixed with the pasta or just topped?
The asiago cheese should be folded into the milk and dressing mixture, then stirred with the pasta to coat it evenly.
Is this considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is categorized as a cheesy comfort food dish perfect for family dinners.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350 F (175 C).
How much gemelli pasta is needed?
The recipe requires 3 cups of gemelli pasta, measured after being cooked and drained.
What preparation is needed for the eggs?
The eggs should be slightly beaten before being whisked into the milk and dressing.
Is there any fiber or sugar in this dish?
According to the nutrition data provided, the fiber and sugar content are not specified.
How much ranch dressing goes into the bake?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of Hidden Valley Original Ranch Dressing.
Should the casserole dish be greased?
Yes, the 1 -quart casserole dish should be oiled before adding the pasta mixture.