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One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Can be made Gluten Free with gluten-free pasta; not inherently gluten free

Description

This creamy and cheesy One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a comforting, quick, and easy dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. Tender ground beef is combined with sharp cheddar cheese, zesty ranch seasoning, and elbow macaroni, all cooked together in one pot for minimal cleanup. Rich, creamy, and flavorful, this family-friendly dish can be customized with veggies or protein swaps and is destined to become a staple meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Dairy

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (preferably freshly shredded)
  • 1 cup milk

Pasta and Broth

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 1/2 cups beef broth

Seasoning and Aromatics

  • 1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat as needed to keep the dish from feeling greasy.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and tender, building a savory foundation.
  3. Add Pasta and Liquids: Pour in the elbow macaroni, beef broth, and milk. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over the mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.
  4. Simmer Until Pasta is Tender: Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir in Cheddar Cheese: Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, coating the pasta evenly.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
  • Monitor pasta closely during cooking to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
  • Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking to the pot and ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust broth or milk quantity if you prefer a saucier pasta.
  • Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: One-Pot Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: one pot pasta, beef pasta, cheddar ranch pasta, easy weeknight dinner, creamy pasta, ground beef recipe, family-friendly dinner

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Find it online: https://dishesbyme.com/one-pot-beef-and-cheddar-ranch-pasta/