Name: One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk; 8 oz pasta (e.g., rotini or penne); 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

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This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and a creamy texture that will have you coming back for seconds. A perfect weeknight dinner, this dish combines ground beef, ranch seasoning, and sharp cheddar cheese for a hearty meal that requires minimal clean-up. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—everything cooks in one pot, making it a hassle-free option when you want a quick and satisfying meal. The beef is browned with onions, then simmered with pasta and a flavorful broth, absorbing all the tasty goodness of the ranch seasoning. The final touch of melted cheddar cheese makes it irresistibly creamy and indulgent. With just a few ingredients and 30 minutes, you can create a comforting and delicious meal that will please the whole family. This one-pot wonder is easy, flavorful, and packed with everything you love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Convenience

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you don’t want to deal with a sink full of dishes. Everything is cooked in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze.

2. Quick and Easy

With just 30 minutes of total cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a hearty meal without the fuss.

3. Rich and Creamy

The combination of beef, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats every piece of pasta for a satisfying bite.

4. Kid-Friendly

The cheesy, ranch-flavored pasta is sure to be a hit with kids (and adults alike), making it a great option for family dinners.

5. Versatile

This recipe can be easily adapted—feel free to switch up the protein (ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options), or add vegetables to the mix for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Small onion, diced
Beef broth
Milk
Pasta (rotini, penne, or your preferred shape)
Ranch seasoning mix
Shredded cheddar cheese
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy version.
Add Veggies: You can add some frozen peas, spinach, or bell peppers to the pot for a burst of color and nutrition.
Different Cheese: Try using mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack cheese in place of cheddar for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Milk

Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Stir in the pasta and ranch seasoning mix. Bring everything to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Season to Taste

Taste the dish and add salt and pepper to your preference. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks to ensure it doesn’t become mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Use a Large Pot: To make sure everything fits comfortably, use a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking.

How to Serve

This dish is filling and flavorful on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top adds an additional cheesy layer for those who love the richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit more milk or broth if needed.

Reheating

Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra liquid (milk or broth) if needed to return the sauce to its creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of meat?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat in place of ground beef.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any small to medium pasta shape like penne, rotini, or fusilli will work well in this dish.

3. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add frozen peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers to the pot for added nutrition and color.

4. Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give it a bit of heat.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk if needed.

6. How can I make the sauce creamier?

If you want a creamier sauce, add a bit more cheese or a tablespoon of cream cheese while stirring in the shredded cheddar.

7. What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water if necessary, though broth adds more flavor.

8. Can I use low-fat milk?

Yes, low-fat or skim milk can be used, though whole milk will give the dish a richer texture.

9. Can I use store-bought ranch seasoning?

Yes, store-bought ranch seasoning works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to use one packet (1 oz).

10. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks and make sure there’s enough liquid in the pot to prevent it from sticking.

Conclusion

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a delicious, creamy, and comforting dish that’s easy to make and even easier to clean up. With its savory beef, tangy ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking for something quick and satisfying, this one-pot meal will deliver both convenience and flavor in every bite.