One-pot Beef And Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the smell of savory ground beef sizzling in a skillet, mingling with the zesty scent of ranch seasoning and the creamy richness of melted cheddar. This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is comfort food at its finest—hearty, flavorful, and unbelievably easy to throw together.

this Recipe

I first made this dish on a chilly weeknight when I had just 30 minutes to get dinner on the table. With a hungry family waiting and not a lot of energy left in the tank, this one-pot wonder saved the day. Since then, it's become a go-to in our weekly meal rotation.

You only need one pot and a handful of pantry staples to make it happen. Let's dive into what makes this recipe a must-try.

Why You'll Love This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite busy-night dinner. This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta hits all the right notes for both flavor and convenience.

First, it's a true one-pot meal. That means less mess and fewer dishes—just one pan to clean at the end of the night. Perfect for those evenings when you're short on time or energy.

It's also incredibly quick to make. From start to finish, you're looking at just 30 minutes. You don't need to be a kitchen pro to whip this one up, which makes it ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Budget-friendly? Absolutely. This recipe uses affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and shredded cheese. You can easily feed a family of four without breaking the bank.

And let’s not forget how satisfying it is. The combination of creamy cheddar, tangy ranch, and hearty beef creates a cozy, crave-worthy dish that even picky eaters will love.

Whether you're cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just need something easy and comforting, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta lies in the way its simple ingredients come together to create bold, comforting flavors.

Ground beef is the star of this recipe. I recommend using 85/15 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and minimal grease. If you're using something fattier, you may want to drain it before adding other ingredients.

Pasta soaks up all the delicious ranch and cheese flavors. Short-cut pasta like penne or elbow macaroni works best because it cooks quickly and holds onto the sauce beautifully.

Ranch seasoning is where the dish gets its signature tangy kick. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own with a blend of dried herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder. Either way, it's a flavor bomb.

Cheddar cheese brings everything together with its creamy melt and bold taste. Use freshly shredded cheddar if you can—it melts better and gives a richer texture than pre-shredded varieties.

You'll also need milk and beef broth to help cook the pasta and form the base of the creamy sauce. A splash of cream can be added if you want to dial up the indulgence.

No special tools are needed here, just a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid. A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring will do the trick.

How To Make This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Creating this crowd-pleasing meal is as easy as can be. With just one pot and a few steps, you'll have dinner ready in no time.

Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with your spoon as it browns. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat if needed.

Next, stir in the ranch seasoning until the beef is well coated. This step helps the flavor absorb into the meat, laying the foundation for the creamy sauce.

Pour in the beef broth and milk, then add your uncooked pasta. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet.

Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You'll know it's ready when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thick and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Total time? Just around 30 minutes. You’ll have a hearty, flavorful dish on the table with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Storage Options

This pasta stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Simply transfer any remaining pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.

In the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Just make sure the container is sealed well to preserve flavor and moisture.

You can also freeze this dish, although the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon reheating. Use a freezer-safe container and enjoy within 2 months for best results.

To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce, or warm it gently on the stove over low heat until heated through. Stir occasionally to keep the cheese from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how customizable it is. You can tweak the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

Try swapping out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version that still packs a punch.

Not a fan of ranch? Use a packet of taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired twist. Add a drained can of black beans and some corn for extra flavor and texture.

Mix up the cheese! While cheddar is classic, you can also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a little heat, or a blend of cheeses for a richer sauce.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in some frozen peas, spinach, or finely chopped bell peppers when the pasta is halfway cooked. It adds color and a nutritional boost.

Don't be afraid to get creative. This dish is a blank canvas for your culinary imagination. Try different pasta shapes, spice levels, or even throw in some crispy bacon for extra indulgence.

Once you make it your own, you'll see just how versatile and rewarding this one-pot wonder can be.

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