Name: One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Salt to taste; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 cups milk; 12 oz uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dinner that comes together with minimal mess and maximum flavor, look no further than this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe. This dish combines hearty ground beef, creamy cheddar, and the irresistible tang of ranch seasoning, all swirled together with tender pasta in a single pot. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big, warm hug after a long day—delicious, fuss-free, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table!

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something special—whether it’s richness, creaminess, or a pop of color—and together, they create a meal that’s both easy and unforgettable.

Ground Beef: Provides the hearty, savory base that makes this pasta so satisfying—use lean beef for less grease.
Olive Oil (if needed): Helps with browning the beef if it’s particularly lean, adding a subtle depth of flavor.
Garlic Cloves: A quick sauté brings out their aromatic punch, elevating the whole dish.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: The star for tangy, herby goodness that infuses every bite with classic ranch flavor.
Low-Sodium Beef Broth: Adds savory depth to the sauce while keeping things from getting too salty.
Milk: Makes the sauce creamy and luscious, blending beautifully with the cheese.
Uncooked Pasta (penne or rotini): These shapes hold onto the sauce and cheese so well—no need to pre-cook!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection; use sharp cheddar for a real flavor punch.
Onion Powder: Provides a gentle sweetness and rounds out the savory notes.
Black Pepper: A little seasoning goes a long way to balance all the flavors.
Salt to Taste: Essential for dialing up the flavors, added at the end for perfect seasoning.
Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): Sprinkles of green make the finished dish look as inviting as it tastes.

How to Make One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If you’re using extra-lean beef, drizzle in a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess grease to keep the dish light and flavorful.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your beef is browned, toss in the minced garlic. Let it sizzle for about a minute, just until fragrant. This brief sauté draws out the garlic’s sweetness and brings a subtle kick to the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe.

Step 3: Stir in Seasonings and Liquids

Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, onion powder, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth and milk, then stir in your uncooked pasta. Make sure everything is well combined—the pasta should be mostly submerged in the liquid for even cooking.

Step 4: Simmer the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will soak up the flavors and become tender, while the sauce thickens and becomes wonderfully creamy.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating that iconic creamy, cheesy finish. If you love extra cheesiness, don’t be shy—add a little more! Taste and adjust with salt as needed.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Garnish

Allow the pasta to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest lets the sauce thicken to perfect, scoopable consistency. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness right before you dig in.

How to Serve One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also try a sprinkle of extra cheddar, sliced green onions, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for a little kick. These finishing touches add color and a hint of brightness that make the dish truly pop.

Side Dishes

This rich, creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies to keep things balanced. A slice of warm garlic bread to mop up the sauce is never a bad idea either!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family-style dinner, serve the pasta straight from the pot at the table. You can also spoon portions into oven-safe bowls, top with a little extra cheese, and broil until bubbly for an irresistible cheesy crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe a great candidate for meal prep and easy lunches.

Freezing

If you want to freeze some for later, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, as this helps preserve the creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally until heated through, and top with fresh parsley or a little more cheddar to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work beautifully in place of beef, making the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe just as hearty and flavorful with a lighter touch.

What kind of pasta works best?

Penne and rotini are favorites because their shapes hold onto the sauce, but you can swap in any short pasta you have on hand—just keep an eye on cooking times for best results.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add sautéed mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian version—just be sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How can I make the dish spicier?

To turn up the heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or stir in some diced jalapeños when adding the garlic. The One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is incredibly flexible to suit your taste.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but for the creamiest texture, freshly shredded cheddar is best. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly the cheese melts into your sauce.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s pure comfort and pure convenience, this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is sure to become a new favorite. It’s a breeze to pull together, packed with flavor, and just downright fun to eat. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so good!

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner combining savory ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and flavorful ranch seasoning in a comforting pasta dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy families seeking a delicious, hearty meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Seasoning

1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste

Liquids and Pasta

2 cups low-sodium beef broth
2 cups milk
12 oz uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)

Cheese and Garnish

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease, if any.
Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the beef and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in ranch seasoning mix, onion powder, black pepper, beef broth, milk, and the uncooked pasta. Mix well to combine.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy throughout the pasta.
Adjust Flavors and Rest: Taste and add salt if needed. Remove the pot from heat and let the pasta sit covered for 5 minutes to thicken.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.