Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold ranch flavor, this one-pot beef and cheddar ranch pasta is the perfect comfort meal for busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s a family favorite that brings together tender pasta, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese in a rich, flavorful sauce.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this dish because it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of beef, cheddar, and ranch seasoning creates an irresistible flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s a quick and easy recipe that delivers a homemade meal with minimal effort—perfect for hectic evenings. Plus, the customizable nature of the ingredients allows for simple swaps and variations based on what’s on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
8 oz elbow macaroni or other short pasta
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Directions
In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth, milk, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir to combine.
Add the pasta, ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 480 kcal per serving
Variations
Swap the protein: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option.
Make it spicier: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for some heat.
Use different pasta: Shells, rotini, or penne all work well.
Extra veggies: Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
Change the cheese: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture. The microwave works too—just heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Related Recipes:
- Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice
- One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup
- Easy and Cheesy Ranch Baked Potatoes
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but the pasta may absorb more liquid as it sits. If making ahead, I add a little extra broth or milk when reheating.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Absolutely! A mix of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt makes a great homemade substitute.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure the ranch seasoning is gluten-free.
What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
Can I freeze leftovers?
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen. I store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This one-pot beef and cheddar ranch pasta is a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for the whole family. With easy ingredient swaps and minimal cleanup, this dish is sure to become a regular in the dinner rotation.
📖 Recipe:
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One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with bold ranch flavor, this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal. With tender pasta, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese in a rich, flavorful sauce, this easy dinner comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
8 oz elbow macaroni or other short pasta
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth, milk, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir to combine.
- Add the pasta, ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.
Notes
Make it spicier: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Extra veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, One-Pot Meals
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 480 kcal
