Description

This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy cheesy ranch sauce come together in one pot, making cleanup easy and the flavors rich and delicious. The addition of diced tomatoes with green chilies adds a subtle kick, while smoked paprika enhances the depth of flavor. Topped with sharp cheddar and green onions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
8 oz elbow macaroni or other short pasta
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

Garnish

2 green onions, sliced

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Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed to prevent greasiness.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.
Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth, milk, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
Mix in Pasta and Seasonings: Add the elbow macaroni, ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings through the mixture.
Simmer the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and cream cheese, if using, until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Garnish and Serve: Top the pasta with sliced green onions for a fresh pop of flavor and serve warm immediately.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free meal.
Adjust seasoning amounts to your taste, especially the salt and ranch mix.
For extra spice, add more diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce.
Cream cheese is optional but adds wonderful creaminess to the sauce.
This dish reheats well and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.