If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal, look no further than this One Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe. This dish brings together the hearty flavors of ground beef, the creamy tang of ranch seasoning, and the melty goodness of sharp cheddar cheese all in one pot for a hassle-free dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate and comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into cooking, gather a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each play a special role in the dish’s flavor, texture, and appeal. You’ll find this recipe balances savory, creamy, and cheesy notes flawlessly with ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that adds rich flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz): Instantly infuses the dish with classic tangy ranch flavor that brightens every bite.
- 2 cups beef broth: Provides a savory depth and keeps the pasta moist as it cooks.
- 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and helps create that luscious sauce texture.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta: Elbows, penne, or shells work best to hold onto the cheese and sauce.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that gooey, melty topping that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil: Used to brown the beef and develop flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle aroma and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile with a gentle sweetness.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and bringing out natural flavors.
- Chopped parsley or green onions: Provides a fresh, colorful garnish and hint of brightness.
How to Make One Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating your butter or olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it turns brown and fragrant, breaking it apart with a spoon so every bite is tender. If the pan has excess grease, be sure to drain it to keep the flavors balanced and not greasy.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Next, sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings create a savory symphony that complements the beef perfectly. Pour in the beef broth, milk, and add your uncooked pasta to the pot. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil; this step sets the stage for the pasta to cook right in the flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Reduce the heat to low, cover your pot, and let the pasta simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and ensure the pasta cooks evenly. This part brings all the flavors together as the pasta absorbs the broth and milk, becoming tender and perfectly infused with the ranch and beef essence.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce that envelops the beef and pasta. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it and keep that indulgent texture flowing.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, spoon your One Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and brightness on top. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the best melty, cheesy, beefy goodness.
How to Serve One Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this pasta with chopped parsley or sliced green onions isn’t just for looks; they add a fresh, herbal note that balances the rich cheese and beef flavors beautifully. You can also try a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a dusting of smoked paprika to deepen the smoky undertones.
Side Dishes
This recipe is a full meal in itself, but if you want to add some sides, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta perfectly. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans bring color, crunch, and extra nutrients to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this cheeseburger-inspired pasta in mini ramekins topped with extra cheddar and broiled until bubbly and golden on top. Another idea is to build individual pasta layers in clear glasses or mason jars for a unique presentation when hosting friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One fantastic thing about this One Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is how well it reheats. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors will remain just as delightful.
Freezing
If you want to freeze it, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months without losing much quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the pasta seems dry. Stir occasionally to ensure the cheese melts smoothly and the dish heats evenly without sticking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional and gives a wonderful sharpness, feel free to swap in mozzarella for a gooey melt or pepper jack for some extra spice. Mixing cheeses can also create a more complex flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This version uses regular pasta, but you can easily substitute gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten intolerant guests. Just be mindful of cooking times as gluten-free pasta can sometimes cook faster or slower.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Certainly! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes or sautéed mushrooms for that savory texture. Also, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it completely vegetarian.
What type of pasta works best?
Elbows, penne, or shells are ideal because their shapes hold onto the cheese and sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with any small or medium-sized pasta you have—just keep an eye on cooking time since different shapes absorb liquid differently.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Yes! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach during the simmer step works beautifully and boosts the nutritional content. Just add them early enough so they cook along with the pasta and beef for even flavor integration.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and beefy flavors all nestled in tender pasta. It’s a recipe that feels like home and cooks up fast, making it my go-to for busy nights when I want a comforting, hearty meal without any fuss.
Print
One Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning simmered with pasta in a creamy sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty dish combines rich flavors and easy preparation for a perfect family dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasonings
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Liquids
- 2 cups (475ml) beef broth
- 2 cups (475ml) milk
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups (200g) uncooked pasta (elbows, penne, or shells)
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
Fat for Cooking
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease if necessary to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth and milk, then add the uncooked pasta. Stir to combine everything evenly and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet or pot and simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Scoop the pasta into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- You can swap cheddar for a different cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- To add veggies, mix in chopped bell peppers or spinach when adding the liquids.
- Use low-fat milk or broth to reduce calories if desired.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
