Name: One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
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)

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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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