Name: One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 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

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Get ready to fall head over heels for One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta! This comforting, family-friendly dish comes together in a single pot with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Tender pasta, savory ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy ranch seasoning all swirl together in a creamy, dreamy sauce that’s guaranteed to make everyone at your table ask for seconds. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or need something totally satisfying for a weekend cozy-in, this recipe ticks all the boxes and then some.

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish is in its simplicity; each ingredient has an important role to play in building those layers of crave-worthy flavor. Gather these must-haves and you’re halfway to one amazing skillet dinner.

Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and tenderness; just be sure to drain excess fat.
Small Onion, Diced: A little onion goes a long way, adding subtle sweetness and depth to the base of your dish.
Beef Broth: This is the flavor backbone, lending rich, savory notes and helping to cook the pasta right in the pot.
Milk: Adds creaminess that ties everything together and makes your sauce ultra-luxurious.
Pasta (Rotini or Penne): These fun shapes hold onto sauce beautifully and stay perfectly al dente.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: Your shortcut to herby, tangy, irresistible flavor—one packet does all the heavy lifting!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for the melt and bite that makes this pasta unforgettable.
Olive Oil: A splash at the beginning ensures your beef browns beautifully without sticking.
Salt and Pepper to Taste: Don’t forget this finishing touch to balance and brighten all those rich, savory flavors.

How to Make One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the ground beef and diced onion. Break up the beef with a wooden spoon as it cooks, letting it brown evenly while the onion gets nice and tender, about 5–7 minutes. This step is key for building a savory, flavorful base for your One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta.

Step 2: Add the Liquid, Seasoning, and Pasta

Drain off any excess fat from the beef, then stir in beef broth, milk, ranch seasoning, and your chosen pasta shape. Give everything a good mix so that every noodle is coated and ready to soak up all that flavor. Turn up the heat and bring the pot to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover your pot. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring every once in a while so nothing sticks to the bottom. The pasta will absorb most of the liquid, and the sauce will start to come together before your eyes. Taste a noodle at the 10-minute mark to check for doneness.

Step 4: Stir in Cheddar Cheese

When the pasta is perfectly cooked, remove the pot from heat and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it all together until the cheese melts fully and turns your pasta into a luscious, creamy delight—that signature “yum” factor of One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta!

Step 5: Season and Serve

Give your pasta a final taste and season with salt and pepper if needed. Scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls, garnish as you like, and serve hot. This is comfort food perfection, ready in under 30 minutes and all from one pot!

How to Serve One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle a bit of freshly chopped parsley or chives over each serving to brighten it up. An extra handful of cheddar or a dollop of sour cream on top gives it serious comfort food vibes, and a few cracks of black pepper never hurt.

Side Dishes

Pair your One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for color and crunch. Warm garlic bread or dinner rolls are a natural fit, perfect for mopping up every last bit of cheesy ranch sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, serve this pasta in individual ramekins and broil with a little extra cheddar for a bubbly top. You can also scoop it into a hollowed-out bread bowl for the ultimate cozy presentation. Or, serve family-style right from the pot for easygoing weeknight charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to mingle and deepen, making tomorrow’s lunch just as irresistible as tonight’s dinner.

Freezing

To freeze, portion cooled pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers. Lay flat for easy stacking and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to help loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through. Top with a little extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Rotini and penne are classics, but shells, fusilli, or elbows work just as well. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as some shapes get tender a bit faster or slower.

Is there a substitute for ranch seasoning mix?

If ranch packets aren’t your thing, you can make your own using a blend of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Or, try another favorite seasoning blend for a personal twist!

Can I make this dish lighter?

Definitely—swap ground turkey or chicken for beef, use low-fat cheddar, and opt for 2 percent or skim milk. You’ll still get all the creamy, herby flavor that makes One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta so special.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

Chicken or vegetable broth can be used in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and perfectly suited for the ranch and cheddar combo.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Go for it! Stir in some frozen peas, corn, or diced bell pepper in the last few minutes of simmering. They’ll add color and sweetness without extra pans or fuss.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a foolproof dinner that brings joy to every bite, you’ve just found it. Give One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite in your own home. Enjoy every cheesy, ranch-kissed forkful!

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

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Description

This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that is quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this creamy pasta is sure to be a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Pasta and Seasonings:

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

Instructions

Prepare Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain excess fat.
Cook Pasta: Stir in beef broth, milk, ranch seasoning, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Finish Dish: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Notes

You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or broccoli.
Feel free to top the pasta with additional cheddar cheese or fresh herbs before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American