If you are searching for a weeknight dinner that is both comforting and bursting with flavor, the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender pasta swimming in a creamy, cheesy ranch-infused sauce loaded with browned beef and sharp cheddar cheese, all coming together in one convenient pot. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also delivers that rich, hearty satisfaction that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a fuss-free meal that feels a bit special, this recipe hits all the right notes every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to making this dish shine. Each one plays a key role, from developing the dish’s depth of flavor to achieving that wonderfully creamy texture and vibrant color.
- Olive oil: Used for perfectly browning the beef and softening the aromatics without sticking.
- Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich, meaty base that makes every bite satisfying.
- Small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a gentle bite that balances the richness.
- Garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant warmth to the dish essential for depth of flavor.
- Beef broth: Creates the simmering liquid that infuses the pasta with savory goodness.
- Condensed cheddar cheese soup: The secret to creamy cheesy sauce without fuss.
- Milk: Lightens and smooths out the sauce for a luscious texture.
- Ranch seasoning mix: Delivers that signature tangy, herbaceous punch that sets this recipe apart.
- Short pasta (penne or rotini): Perfect shapes that hold sauce well while cooking to tender perfection.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, melty finish full of cheesy goodness.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon for even cooking. Once the beef has a rich color, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them for about 2 to 3 minutes until everything is tender and fragrant. If there’s excess fat, go ahead and drain it to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
Next, pour in the beef broth, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and milk. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix to infuse the sauce with its trademark herby, tangy flavor. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic starts to happen as the sauce melds together beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
After your sauce is simmering, add the uncooked short pasta right into the pot. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll notice the pasta soaking up all those tasty liquids and becoming tender, while the sauce thickens into that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 4: Finish with Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has reached a luscious thickness, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely and blends smoothly into the sauce for that rich, cheesy finish that makes this dish so irresistible.
How to Serve One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a burst of fresh color and an herby hint that cuts through the richness. If you want an extra touch, a dash of cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can add a nice contrast and a little kick.
Side Dishes
This pasta holds its own as a star entree, but pairing it with crisp side salads or steamed green veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or roasted asparagus adds balance and freshness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the creamy texture and help scoop up every delightful bite of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd or special occasion, consider serving the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra cheddar and a quick broil to create a bubbly, golden crust. Alternatively, serve it family-style straight from the pot with a big wooden spoon to keep it casual and cozy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this dish store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more once chilled, making for delicious next-day meals that need just a quick reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta, but for best texture, slightly undercook the pasta when making the dish. Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers and enjoy within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir often to ensure it heats evenly and stays creamy without drying out or sticking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic here, ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully and will create a lighter version of this comforting pasta.
Is there a vegetarian option?
For a vegetarian twist, swap the beef with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ground “meat” alternatives. Just adjust your seasoning accordingly to keep that bold flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch seasoning mix and condensed soup are gluten-free varieties, which are widely available nowadays.
How spicy is the ranch seasoning?
Ranch seasoning generally has mild spices and herbs, perfect for a kid-friendly meal, but if you prefer more heat, adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes is an easy upgrade.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely. Vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking to add more color and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Give the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe a try for an easy, tasty dinner that feels like pure comfort on your plate. It’s a fantastic way to gather around with loved ones and enjoy something quick yet delicious without a mountain of dishes afterward. Once you try this, it’s bound to become one of your go-to cozy meals whenever you want that perfect mix of cheesy, meaty, and savory delight.
Print
One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal made with ground beef, sharp cheddar, and classic ranch seasoning. It’s a quick and easy stovetop dinner perfect for busy weeknights, combining savory flavors with tender pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce all cooked in a single pot for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (10 oz) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Other
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces short pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Stir in the beef broth, condensed cheddar cheese soup, milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure the pasta cooks evenly until tender and the sauce thickens.
- Melt cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy a hearty, cheesy one-pot meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, stir in cooked bacon or diced jalapeños before serving.
- This dish can easily be made with ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash more milk or broth to loosen it.
