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
Scale
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.
