If you’re searching for the ultimate weeknight comfort food that brings together unbeatable flavor and minimal cleanup, look no further than One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta. This dish is pure dinnertime magic—a creamy, cheesy ranch pasta loaded with savory ground beef, all simmered together in a single skillet. Each bite is a joyful blend of tangy ranch, sharp cheddar, and tender noodles, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Trust me, this is one of those recipes that lands on your “make it again” list after the very first taste!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is how each simple ingredient has a starring role. You’ve likely got nearly all of these in your pantry or fridge already, and each one brings delicious flavor, heartiness, or creamy texture to this crave-worthy meal.
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides a savory, meaty base and browns beautifully for a rich flavor.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix (1 packet, 1 oz): The star flavor—think zesty herbs, garlic, and a little tang for unforgettable taste.
- Beef Broth (2 cups): Builds a deep, beefy background and ensures the pasta cooks up perfectly tender.
- Milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess and helps form the luscious sauce that coats every bite.
- Uncooked Rotini Pasta (8 oz): Rotini’s spirals soak up all that cheesy, ranchy goodness as it cooks right in the pan.
- Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Thickens the sauce to pure silky decadence—no extra cheese sauce to prepare!
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts at the end for irresistible stretch and bold cheddar flavor; sharp cheddar works especially well.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right hint of warmth and complexity.
- Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): A small but mighty boost of savory depth—don’t skip it!
- Chopped Parsley (for garnish): Brightens up the final dish for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Let it get nicely browned all over—those little crispy bits add so much flavor! Once it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, go ahead and drain off any excess grease to keep your pasta sauce from turning soupy.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Liquids
With the beef still hot in the skillet, sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, making sure it coats the meat well. Next, pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir in the uncooked rotini, condensed cheddar cheese soup, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything together so that the ranch mix and soup are evenly combined with the liquids, setting the stage for your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Pasta
Turn the heat up just until the mixture comes to a light boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the pasta cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The rotini will cook right in the sauce, soaking up all those amazing ranch and beef flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is perfectly tender and the sauce is starting to thicken up.
Step 4: Finish With Cheddar Cheese
Once the pasta is just right, remove your skillet from the heat. Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until it’s totally melted into the creamy sauce. This is where One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta truly becomes magical—rich, melty, and ready to serve. Let it sit uncovered for three to five minutes to thicken up before dishing out generous servings.
How to Serve One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top adds brightness and a lovely pop of green that makes the dish even more inviting. You could also try thinly sliced green onions, a pinch of cracked black pepper, or even a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta easily stands alone, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect for contrast. Warm garlic bread or simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas also make wonderful sidekicks for One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon your pasta into individual oven-safe bowls, top with a little extra cheddar, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish. You can also serve it in a big family-style skillet for that cozy, rustic feel. For kids, try scooping the pasta into large mugs—something about pasta in a mug just makes dinner extra fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or grab-and-go lunches.
Freezing
To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It’s best enjoyed within two months. The cheesy sauce may thicken a bit after freezing, but a splash of milk during reheating brings it right back to creamy perfection.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave, adding a tablespoon or two of milk to loosen up the sauce. Heat gently and stir occasionally for even warming. On the stovetop, warm over medium-low heat, stirring in a little extra liquid as needed for that fresh-from-the-pan creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While rotini is great for catching all the cheesy sauce, penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni will work beautifully in this One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta recipe. Just keep an eye on cook times, as different shapes may cook a little faster or slower.
What if I want to add vegetables?
That’s such a tasty idea! Toss in chopped broccoli florets, peas, or even diced carrots during the last five minutes of simmering. They’ll cook to perfect tenderness and turn your One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta into a one-dish meal with extra color and nutrition.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, swapping in ground turkey or chicken works great and lightens things up a bit. You’ll still get that creamy, zippy ranch flavor that makes this pasta so irresistible. Just be sure to season generously and brown the meat well for best taste.
What if I don’t have condensed cheddar cheese soup?
No worries! Try making a quick homemade cheese sauce with a roux, milk, and plenty of shredded cheddar. Or use a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup and add extra cheese—it won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be delicious.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Definitely! Make the One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta a day in advance, refrigerate, then gently reheat before serving. It’s fabulous for feeding a crowd—just offer extra toppings on the side, like more shredded cheddar, bacon bits, or hot sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s comforting, quick, and guaranteed to win smiles, One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is absolutely the answer. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how the flavors turn out spot-on every time. Give it a try this week—you might just find your new go-to recipe for busy nights and cozy family dinners!
Print
One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and ground beef in a creamy pasta skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
1 lb
Ranch Seasoning Mix:
1 packet (1 oz)
Beef Broth:
2 cups
Milk:
1 cup
Rotini Pasta:
8 oz
Cheddar Cheese Soup:
1 can (10.5 oz)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese:
1 cup
Black Pepper:
1/2 teaspoon
Garlic Powder:
1/4 teaspoon
Parsley:
chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in ranch seasoning, beef broth, milk, uncooked pasta, cheddar cheese soup, black pepper, and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Finish Dish: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Let sit for 3 to 5 minutes to thicken before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Add vegetables like broccoli or peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 960 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
