One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that the whole family will love, this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the perfect choice! Combining the savory richness of ground beef with the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese and the zesty kick of ranch seasoning, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re short on time or just want an easy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers in both flavor and convenience. You’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in just 30 minutes with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Convenience: Everything cooks in a single pot, making both preparation and cleanup quick and easy.
2. Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of beef, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and savory dish that’s irresistibly creamy.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight dinner.
4. Family-Friendly: With familiar ingredients like beef, pasta, and cheese, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
5. Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients or add your favorite veggies to make this dish your own.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Small onion, diced
• 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

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Creamier Sauce: If you like your sauce extra creamy, you can add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese along with the milk.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Pasta

Once the beef is cooked, add the beef broth and milk to the pot. Stir to combine. Then, add the pasta and ranch seasoning mix, stirring to ensure the pasta is well coated. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer the Pasta

Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the pasta simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and create a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the dish hot, garnished with extra cheddar cheese or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Stir Occasionally: Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Adjust Consistency: If the pasta becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a splash more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Use Lean Beef: If you prefer a leaner version, use lean ground beef or even ground turkey as a substitute.

How to Serve

• With a Salad: Pair this rich, creamy pasta with a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgent dinner.
• Topped with Extra Cheese: Add a sprinkle of extra cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top for even more cheesy goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding extra liquid if necessary to loosen up the sauce.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes! You can use any short pasta such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you use.
2. Can I make this recipe with ground turkey?
   Yes, ground turkey works as a great substitute for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.
3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
   Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added flavor and nutrition.
4. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, you can swap out cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little heat.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   No, this recipe uses regular pasta, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta variety.
6. How can I make the sauce spicier?
   Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or even some hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
7. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve more people. Just make sure to use a large enough pot to accommodate the increased quantity.
8. Can I make this in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
9. What can I serve with this dish?
   Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal.
10. How do I know when the pasta is done?
    The pasta is done when it’s al dente, meaning it’s cooked through but still has a slight bite to it. Make sure to check for doneness after 10-12 minutes of simmering.

Conclusion

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is an easy, creamy, and delicious meal that combines all the flavors you love in one convenient pot. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but indulgent enough for a cozy family dinner. With its cheesy, ranch-flavored sauce and tender pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation!

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