One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

If comfort food is what you’re craving, you’ve landed on the perfect recipe! This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a quick, creamy, and flavor-packed meal that brings together juicy ground beef, tangy ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar cheese. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, saving you time on cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you just want an effortless, hearty dinner, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!

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

Minimal cleanup: No extra pans or dishes required—just one pot!
Quick and easy: Perfect for weeknights with a total cook time of about 30 minutes.
Family-approved: The combination of beef, pasta, cheddar, and ranch is a surefire hit with both kids and adults.
Customizable: Swap out pasta shapes, tweak seasonings, or add extra veggies to make it your own.

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Ingredients for One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to create this crowd-pleasing dish:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
8 oz pasta (e.g., rotini, penne, or shells)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot or deep skillet with a lid
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Measuring cups

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

Looking to spice things up or tailor the dish to your preferences? Here are some ideas:

Add vegetables: Toss in diced bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added nutrients.
Switch up the cheese: While cheddar is classic, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work great too.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Use ground turkey or chicken: A leaner alternative to beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion

In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add Liquid and Pasta

Add the beef broth, milk, ranch seasoning mix, and uncooked pasta to the pot. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

What to Serve with One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

This hearty dish can easily stand alone, but here are a few sides to complement it:

Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Side salad: A simple green salad with ranch or vinaigrette balances the richness.
Steamed veggies: Broccoli or green beans pair beautifully.

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Pasta

Stir frequently: This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Adjust liquid if needed: If the pasta looks dry before it’s done, add a splash of milk or broth.
Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes clump due to added anti-caking agents. Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate when thawed.
Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose. Smaller pasta like elbows may cook faster, while larger shapes like rigatoni may need a few extra minutes.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and check that your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free as well.

What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?

If you don’t have a ranch packet, mix 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp dill, and 1/2 tsp salt for a DIY ranch blend.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta has it all: bold flavors, creamy texture, and a quick, hassle-free preparation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed win.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to see how it turned out! Share your photos on Pinterest or leave a comment below. Your feedback is always appreciated.

More One-Pot Recipes to Try:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
One-Pot Taco Mac and Cheese
One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 20g

Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!