One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy pasta dish that comes together in just one pot. It’s the kind of comfort food that fills your home with irresistible aromas and brings everyone running to the dinner table. This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.

If you love creamy, cheesy pasta with bold ranch flavors and savory beef, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. The best part? Minimal cleanup! Since everything cooks in one pot, you get all the deliciousness without the extra dishes.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy bowl of pasta, this recipe is a must-try. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess, fewer dishes, and all the flavor!
• Creamy & Cheesy: A rich, velvety cheese sauce coats every bite.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults—who doesn’t love a cheesy pasta?
• Bold Ranch Flavor: A fun twist on classic beef pasta, thanks to ranch seasoning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Aromatics

In a large pot or deep skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is mostly cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasoning

Pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring well to combine. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir again to make sure the flavors are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle some dried parsley on top for a pop of color, and serve warm. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work best because they hold the sauce well.
• Prevent Sticking: Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
• Adjust the Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a minute or two.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. For the best results, shred your own cheddar.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Beef-based

Notes

• If you prefer a milder flavor, use a half packet of ranch seasoning instead of a full one.
• Feel free to swap cheddar for a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for extra creaminess.
• This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Estimated values based on 6 servings:

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: ~850mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This with a Different Protein?

Yes! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even beef sausage for a different twist.

What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?

If you’re out of ranch seasoning, you can make your own by mixing dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is the classic choice, you can use mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even a blend for a different flavor profile.

How Do I Make This Recipe Lighter?

To lighten up the dish, use lean ground beef, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Freezing: This pasta can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Related Recipes

If you liked this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta, you’ll love these other cozy comfort food recipes:

• Garlic Beef Pasta – A Comforting and Flavorful Meal
• Creamy Parmesan Beef with Rigatoni Pasta
• Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
• Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne – A Comforting One-Pot Wonder!

Conclusion

This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—all while being easy to make and requiring minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Print