Description
This comforting One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a quick and easy meal that combines ground beef, zesty ranch seasoning, and creamy cheddar cheese in a rich sauce with tender pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty American main course is packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (10 oz) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Seasoning and Pasta
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces short pasta (such as penne or rotini)
Optional Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Mix Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, condensed cheddar cheese soup, milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Pasta and Cook: Stir in the uncooked pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
- Serve and Garnish: Optionally sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta for a fresh touch. Serve the dish warm for a hearty, flavorful meal.
Notes
- For added flavor, stir in a handful of cooked bacon or diced jalapeños before serving.
- This recipe works well with ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
