Description
This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a comforting and creamy American main course packed with ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and flavorful ranch seasoning. Cook everything together in one pot for an easy, hearty, and delicious weeknight meal that delivers rich taste with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta and Liquids
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onions: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat if using lean ground beef. Add the ground beef and finely chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onion is tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add spices and garlic: Stir in minced garlic, ranch seasoning mix, paprika if using, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to allow the spices to become fragrant and bloom.
- Cook pasta with broth: Add the uncooked pasta and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything to combine well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with cheese and cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top as a garnish before serving. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful one-pot pasta dish!
Notes
- Add a handful of spinach or frozen peas at the end of cooking for extra vegetables.
- For a spicier kick, mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the spices.
