Description
This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a quick and hearty meal made with ground beef, tender pasta, creamy ranch-seasoned sauce, and lots of melty cheddar cheese. Everything cooks in one pot — less mess, more flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion (chopped)
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work great)
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2 1/2 cups beef broth
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1 cup milk
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1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter (if needed)
Instructions
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Brown the beef: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
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Add garlic and seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic, ranch seasoning, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add pasta and liquids: Pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir in the uncooked pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
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Simmer: Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Add cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
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Serve: Spoon into bowls and top with extra cheese or chopped parsley if you’d like!
Notes
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Use any short pasta you have on hand.
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Ground turkey or chicken works too!
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Add cooked broccoli or peas at the end for extra veggies.
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For a spicy kick, stir in a little hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.