One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta
Looking for an easy and delicious meal that the whole family will love? This One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups uncooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning, beef broth, milk, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until pasta is cooked to your liking.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 35g
Popular Questions:
- Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Q: What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?
- Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Q: How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
- Q: Can this dish be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
A: You can use a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill as a substitute for ranch seasoning.
A: Feel free to use your favorite cheese in place of cheddar, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
A: You can add diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the skillet when browning the ground beef.
A: This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated.
Helpful Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a can of diced tomatoes or a handful of sliced mushrooms.
- Top the dish with crispy bacon bits for a delicious twist.
- Experiment with different types of pasta shapes for a fun variation.
- Try using seasoned ground beef or sausage for added spice.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Expert Secrets:
- Cook the pasta al dente for optimal texture in the finished dish.
- Simmer the sauce gently to prevent the cheese from becoming stringy.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more ranch seasoning or spices.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or thyme for an extra pop of flavor.