Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Ready in 30 Minutes!
This easy one-pot wonder combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich cheddar-ranch sauce for the ultimate weeknight dinner. Less dishes, more flavor!
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 8 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or elbows)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning
Cheesy Finish:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas or broccoli florets
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot/Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and onion. Cook 5-7 mins, breaking up meat, until browned. Drain fat.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Stir in beef broth, milk, ranch seasoning, and pasta.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook 10-12 mins, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
3. Add Cheese & Serve
- Remove from heat, stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season to taste and serve hot!
🌟 Pro Tips
🍝 Creamy Texture Tricks:
- Use freshly shredded cheese (pre-shredded won’t melt as smoothly).
- Broth too salty? Use low-sodium broth and adjust seasoning.
⏳ Meal Prep & Storage:
- Fridge: Keeps for 3 days (add splash of milk when reheating).
- Freeze: Portion and freeze for 1 month (thaw in fridge overnight).
🌶️ Flavor Boosters:
- Top with crispy bacon or diced tomatoes.
- Swap ranch seasoning for taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist.
❓ FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Substitute ground chicken and chicken broth.
2. Why is my pasta sticky?
- Stir more often while cooking.
- Add ¼ cup extra broth if needed.
3. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use GF pasta and ensure ranch seasoning is GF.
4. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown beef first, then cook on Low 2-3 hours (add cheese last).
5. Too thick? Too thin?
- Thin it: Add more broth or milk.
- Thicken it: Simmer uncovered 2-3 mins.
🍽️ Final Thoughts
This Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is comfort food at its easiest—hearty, cheesy, and packed with ranch flavor. Perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd!
“One pot, zero fuss, ALL deliciousness!” 😋
Tag your creations #OnePotRanchPasta
