One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich cheddar ranch sauce—all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. This comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot meal means minimal cleanup.
• Loaded with cheesy, ranch-flavored goodness.
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved.
• Quick to make with pantry staples.
• Easy to customize with different meats or veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Pasta (elbow, penne, or your choice)
• Beef broth or water with bouillon
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Milk or heavy cream
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat oil and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Stir in uncooked pasta, beef broth, and ranch seasoning.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer and cover. Cook until pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli.
• Chicken Version: Use ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Bacon Ranch Pasta: Add cooked bacon for extra savory flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of milk or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Not ideal due to dairy content, but can be frozen in a pinch for up to 1 month.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like shells, rotini, or fusilli works well.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free ranch mix.

What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?

Use a mix of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, though freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother texture.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely—creamy pasta and cheese are usually a hit with kids.

Can I use plant-based meat?

Yes, ground meat alternatives work great in this recipe.

How do I make it creamier?

Add more milk or a spoonful of cream cheese.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your pot is large enough to handle the extra volume.

Is it spicy?

Not at all—but you can easily add spice to taste.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, but mild cheddar or a blend works too.

Conclusion

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with minimal mess and maximum flavor. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with ranch-seasoned beef, it’s an easy dinner win for busy nights. Try it once and it just might become a weeknight staple!

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