Name: One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta: A Quick and Creamy Comfort Dish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb 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

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Looking for a simple and satisfying meal that combines the rich flavors of beef, creamy cheese, and the zesty kick of ranch seasoning? One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the perfect recipe for you. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a hearty and delicious dinner ready in just 30 minutes. This dish is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning, all brought together in one pot for easy cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or want something comforting to enjoy on the weekend, this pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your preferences. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering a rich and creamy pasta dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.

2. One-Pot Wonder

With only one pot required, cleanup is minimal, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal rather than doing dishes.

3. Creamy and Flavorful

The combination of cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

4. Comforting and Hearty

Ground beef adds a savory depth to the dish, while the pasta soaks up the flavorful broth, creating a filling and satisfying meal.

5. Customizable

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Diced onion
Beef broth
Milk
Pasta (such as rotini or penne)
Ranch seasoning mix (1 oz packet)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

Add Veggies: Stir in some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to add extra nutrients and flavor to the dish.
Swap Meat: For a leaner version, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give this dish a bit of heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Milk

Pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir to combine with the beef mixture.

Step 3: Add the Pasta

Add the pasta and ranch seasoning mix to the pot. Stir well to combine, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer the Pasta

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta hot, and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks to avoid it becoming mushy. It should be tender but still firm to the bite.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Cheese Options: While cheddar is the star of this dish, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Add Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor by stirring in some garlic powder or onion powder along with the ranch seasoning mix.

How to Serve

This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to add a fresh crunch and balance out the richness of the pasta. You could also serve it with a slice of garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a little splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat in the microwave or on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, add a little milk or broth to the pasta to prevent it from drying out. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small to medium-sized pasta like rotini, penne, or macaroni will work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for ground beef if you want a leaner option.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

5. What can I add to make the dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

6. Can I use low-fat milk?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat or skim milk for regular milk, but it may result in a less creamy texture.

7. Can I use a different cheese?

Cheddar cheese is the most common choice for this recipe, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

8. How long does this dish take to cook?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a great option for a quick meal.

9. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to increase the nutrition and add flavor.

10. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and use plant-based meat or just add more veggies to the dish.

Conclusion

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, creamy, and satisfying. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a flavorful, hearty meal. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, and enjoy a cheesy, savory dish that the whole family will love.