One-pot Beef And Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish bubbling away in just one pot. This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta delivers savory ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and the zesty kick of ranch seasoning – all wrapped up in a silky, satisfying sauce.

I first made this on a chilly evening when I needed something fast, hearty, and guaranteed to satisfy my picky eaters. It quickly became a staple in our dinner rotation. Between the quick cook time and easy cleanup, it checks all the boxes for a busy weeknight favorite.

The beef browns beautifully, the pasta cooks right in the sauce, and the cheddar brings it all together in the creamiest, dreamiest way. Let me show you why this dish needs to be on your dinner table tonight.

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

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate weeknight comfort food. This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta hits every mark: fast, flavorful, and family-approved.

First, let’s talk about ease. This dish comes together in under 35 minutes, and since everything cooks in a single pot, cleanup is blissfully minimal. That means more time to relax after dinner.

It’s incredibly budget-friendly too. Using pantry staples like ground beef, dry pasta, and shredded cheese keeps costs low without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for feeding a crowd on a dime.

This recipe is a picky-eater's dream. The familiar flavors of ranch and cheddar make it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s hearty enough to satisfy big appetites, but mild enough to please the whole family.

And let’s not forget how adaptable it is. You can swap in different pasta shapes, use turkey instead of beef, or even add veggies like broccoli or spinach for a nutrition boost.

Once you try it, you'll be coming back to this recipe anytime you need an easy dinner win.

Ingredients Notes

What makes this pasta so special is how simple ingredients come together to create something far greater than the sum of their parts. Here are a few key players you’ll want to know about.

Ground beef is the foundation of this recipe. I like to use 85/15 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, just be sure to add a little extra oil so the pan doesn’t dry out.

Dry pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up every bit of flavor. Short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells works best here. Avoid delicate pasta shapes that may overcook or turn mushy.

Cheddar cheese brings the richness and creaminess. I recommend shredding your own from a block for the smoothest melt. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

Ranch seasoning is the secret weapon. It adds a punch of herby, tangy flavor that takes this pasta from ordinary to crave-worthy. Use a packet or make your own blend if you prefer to control the sodium.

You’ll also need a large deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid. Since this is a one-pot meal, it’s important to have a pan that can hold everything comfortably and retain heat well.

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

Making this dish couldn’t be easier. It all starts with a single pot and ends with a steaming bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness.

Start by heating your pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.

Next, sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the beef and stir until it’s well combined. This step infuses the meat with tons of flavor. Then add in your pasta, broth, and milk. Stir to combine everything and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed by the time it’s done.

When the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has fully melted into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy coating over every bite.

Give the dish a quick taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Then, let it sit uncovered for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before serving. From start to finish, this meal is ready in just about 30-35 minutes.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? You're in luck – this dish stores beautifully and reheats like a dream.

To store, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you're planning ahead, you can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

When freezing, portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for easier reheating. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For larger portions, warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

This one-pot wonder is as flexible as it is flavorful. Here are a few fun twists you can try to make it your own.

For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. The flavor is slightly lighter, but still delicious with the cheddar-ranch combo.

Want to sneak in some veggies? Stir in frozen peas, chopped spinach, or steamed broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. They'll cook quickly and add color and nutrients.

Not a fan of ranch? Swap it out for a packet of taco seasoning and add a handful of black beans or corn for a Tex-Mex inspired version.

Switch up the pasta shape to whatever you have on hand. Just be mindful of the cooking time – thinner shapes may cook faster, while thicker ones might need a few extra minutes.

And if you like things spicy, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the dish a little heat.

No matter how you customize it, this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is sure to be a hit. It’s easy, cozy, and endlessly craveable – everything you want in a weeknight dinner.

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