Print

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta
Print Recipe

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a quick, creamy, and cheesy dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory ground beef, tender pasta, sharp cheddar cheese, and flavorful ranch seasoning, all cooked together in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins and Dairy

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 2 tbsp butter or olive oil

Pasta and Liquids

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
  • 2 1/2 cups beef broth

Seasonings and Aromatics

  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly, stirring frequently. Drain excess fat for a cleaner taste.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add finely chopped 1 small onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened to build a savory base.
  3. Combine Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in 2 1/2 cups beef broth and 1 1/2 cups milk. Sprinkle 1 packet ranch seasoning mix evenly over the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Add Pasta and Simmer: Stir in 2 cups of uncooked pasta. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 12–15 minutes, or until pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Notes

  • Choose small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells for even cooking and good sauce absorption.
  • Stir the pasta frequently while simmering to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for smoother melting without clumps.
  • Adjust liquid amounts if needed depending on pasta brand or type, adding a splash more broth or milk if too thick.
  • Let the pasta rest covered for a couple of minutes after cooking to thicken the sauce further.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, beef pasta, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, quick dinner, comfort food, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/one-pot-beef-and-cheddar-ranch-pasta/