If you’re craving a dinner that’s hearty, cheesy, and ready with just one pot, this Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the perfect solution. Combining savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce with bold ranch flavor, this dish feels like a mash-up of classic comfort foods in the best possible way. Best of all, it all cooks in one pot — which means fewer dishes, easy prep, and dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, casual family meals, or anytime you want something warm and satisfying without a lot of fuss. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers big flavor that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 8 ounces pasta (elbows, rotini, or shells work well)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Cheesy Finish
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or chives
These simple ingredients create a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s rich, savory, and satisfying — without needing multiple pots or pans.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks so the pieces are small and even. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
Once the beef is cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until the onions soften and become translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute more, until fragrant.
This step builds flavor by cooking the aromatics just until they’re tender and aromatic.
3. Add Seasoning and Liquids
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the beef and onion mixture and stir to coat evenly.
Next, add the beef broth, milk, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine, making sure the tomato paste dissolves into the liquid. The combination of broth and milk creates a creamy base that will cook the pasta and form the sauce.
4. Add the Pasta
Pour the uncooked pasta directly into the pot and stir so it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat so the mixture simmers.
Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick together or to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed into a creamy sauce.
5. Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy, reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If you’re using Parmesan, add that now too.
Cover the pot with a lid for 2–3 minutes so the cheese can melt thoroughly. Then stir gently until the cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce becomes rich and velvety.
6. Taste and Garnish
Give the pasta a quick taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Some people like a bit more ranch flavor or a pinch of black pepper. Once it’s just right, sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips & Variations
- Choice of Pasta: Elbows, rotini, shells, or even small penne work beautifully. Smaller shapes help trap the creamy sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to stir in vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for color and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce adds a subtle heat.
- Make It Creamier: For an extra-rich sauce, swap half the milk for half-and-half or add a few tablespoons of cream cheese when you add the cheddar.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
This dish is flexible — mix and match additions based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides like:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
These light sides contrast the rich pasta and make the meal feel balanced and complete.
Conclusion :
One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a wonderful example of how comforting, satisfying meals don’t have to be complicated. With its savory ground beef, tender pasta, and creamy, cheesy ranch-infused sauce, this dish delivers big flavors that appeal to both kids and adults. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but in its simplicity — everything cooks in one pot, which means quicker prep, less cleanup, and more time enjoying dinner with your family.
Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner for friends, this pasta recipe is a reliable go-to that produces consistent, delicious results. It’s hearty enough to satisfy hungry appetites and flexible enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Once you make this dish, it’s likely to earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation — a comforting favorite that’s both easy and irresistible.
