One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

Can a comforting pasta dish be both simple and delicious? Absolutely! Discover how this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe can transform your dinner routine.

Life is busy, and finding a meal that is both quick and satisfying can feel daunting. This recipe not only delivers on taste but also simplifies your cooking process with its one-pot method. You’ll savor the rich flavors of beef, cheese, and ranch seasoning all while enjoying a hassle-free clean-up!

Ingredients List

• 1 pound ground beef
• 12 ounces pasta (your choice: rotini, penne, or shells)
• 1 packet ranch dressing mix (about 1 ounce)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Looking for substitutions? You can replace ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter take. Not a fan of cheddar? Substitute with your favorite cheese type, like mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick!

Timing

This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta requires:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

This total time is 30% faster than many traditional pasta recipes, which often require boiling pasta separately and multiple pots!

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned, about 5-7 minutes. We recommend crumbling the beef as it cooks for even browning.

Step 2: Add the Pasta and Broth

Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the dry pasta and the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 3: Mix in Dairy and Seasoning

After the pasta is cooked, stir in the milk, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined, remove the pot from heat. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Nutritional Information

This dish serves approximately 4 people, with each serving containing around:

• Calories: 540
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 25g
• Sodium: 800mg

When compared with typical pasta dishes, this recipe is balanced, offering a hearty protein source and plenty of flavor without unnecessary complexity.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to dial down on calories or enhance nutritional value without sacrificing flavor, consider these alternatives:

• Use whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein.
• Opt for low-sodium beef broth to reduce overall sodium intake.
• Incorporate vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your dining experience with these serving ideas:

• Pair with a fresh garden salad or steamed veggies for extra nutrients.
• Serve with garlic bread on the side for a classic touch.
• For a fun twist, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of bacon bits to the top!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the browning step for the beef can lead to a bland flavor; take the time to sear it properly!
• Not stirring enough can cause the pasta to stick together. Frequent stirring during cooking is key.
• Adding too much liquid may lead to a soupy dish; stick to the measurements for best results.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta fresh:

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it appears too thick.

Conclusion

Your search for an easy, flavorful dinner ends here! This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is not only a time-saver but also a family favorite with its rich taste profile. Try it today and transform your mealtime routine. We’d love to hear your thoughts—please leave a comment and share your variations or experiences!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as a leaner option, and you can also substitute it with a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.

What types of cheese can I use instead of cheddar?

You can replace cheddar with mozzarella for a mild flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and ensure your broth and ranch mix are also gluten-free to maintain the recipe’s integrity.

How can I make this pasta dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños when browning the beef, or use a spicy cheese to amp up the heat!

Savory OnePot Beef Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe Easy

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• Author: Natalia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty one-pot pasta loaded with seasoned ground beef, tangy ranch flavor, and melty cheddar cheese—comfort food made easy in under 30 minutes!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)

• 3 cups beef broth

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

• In a pot, heat oil and brown beef; drain excess fat.

• Stir in pasta, broth, and ranch seasoning.

• Simmer until pasta is tender and liquid absorbed.

• Mix in cheddar until melted and creamy.

• Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• Add a splash of cream for extra richness.

• Garnish with parsley or green onions for freshness.

• Swap beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 490
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g

Savory OnePot Beef Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe Easy

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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: mery
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Savor this easy onepot beef cheddar ranch pasta recipe Perfect for a quick weeknight meal packed with flavor and minimal cleanup

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound ground beef

12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)

1 packet ranch dressing mix (about 1 ounce)

2 cups beef broth

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup milk

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Stir in the dry pasta and the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 3: Stir in the milk, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined and creamy, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Remove from heat, top with remaining cheddar cheese, allow to melt, and serve hot garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One-pot
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 540 calories
• Fat: 25 grams
• Saturated Fat: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Protein: 30 grams