This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and zesty ranch seasoning in one easy skillet meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this cheesy pasta dinner is family-friendly and made with simple ingredients—all in a single pot for easy cleanup.
1 lb ground beef
2 cups dry pasta (penne or rotini work well)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add pasta, beef broth, milk, and ranch seasoning. Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until pasta is cooked.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Use any short pasta shape like rotini, penne, or shells.
Adjust cheese and ranch seasoning to taste for stronger flavor.
Can be made ahead and reheated with a splash of milk.