This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal. Made with savory ground beef, tender pasta, bold ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar cheese, it all comes together in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, this creamy pasta dinner is perfect for busy families and cozy nights in.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
2 cups beef broth
2 cups pasta shells (or any small pasta shape)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion for 5–7 minutes, breaking the beef apart as it cooks, until browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess grease if needed.
2️⃣ Add Ranch Seasoning and Broth
Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Add the pasta shells, making sure they’re mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
4️⃣ Make It Cheesy
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook for 1–2 minutes until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5️⃣ Serve
Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with extra cheddar, chopped parsley, or green onions if desired.
Tips & Variations
Extra creamy: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or sour cream
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños
Protein swap: Use ground turkey or chicken
Veggie boost: Add frozen peas, corn, or spinach
Cheese blend: Try cheddar-jack or Colby-Jack for more melt
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