Indulge in the savory flavors of beef, cheddar, and ranch with this delicious one-pot pasta recipe. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Great flavors: The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and tangy ranch seasoning creates a mouthwatering dish.
- Quick prep time: With just one pot and simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Ingredient Notes:
- Ground beef: Adds protein and hearty flavor to the dish.
- Small onion, diced: Provides a savory base for the pasta.
- Beef broth: Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Milk: Creates a creamy sauce for the pasta.
- Pasta (e.g., rotini or penne): Choose your favorite shape for this dish.
- Packet ranch seasoning mix: Adds a zesty ranch flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the pasta for a cheesy finish.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the beef and onion.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Season to your preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef and onion in olive oil.
- Stir in beef broth, milk, pasta, and ranch seasoning mix.
- Simmer until the pasta is cooked and the sauce is thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melting consistency.
- Adjust the ranch seasoning to taste, adding more for a stronger flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. Serve with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to the pasta and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for the beef in this recipe. - Can I freeze this dish?
While it can be frozen, the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating. - How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef. - Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Conclusion:
Don’t miss out on this delectable one-pot beef and cheddar ranch pasta recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and savor every cheesy, savory bite!
Print
One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: One Pot & One Pan
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning with pasta in a creamy sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to make in just one pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in beef broth, milk, ranch seasoning mix, and pasta. Bring to a simmer and cook until pasta is tender.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg