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When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, few dishes can match the comfort of a hearty pasta dinner. Enter Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Delight—a delightful fusion of ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and zesty ranch seasoning that comes together seamlessly in one pot. This dish is not only rich and flavorful but also designed to be a quick-fix solution for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a family looking to serve a filling meal or an individual seeking a comforting dish without the hassle of extensive cleanup, this recipe is your answer.

One-Pot Beef and Cheddar Ranch Pasta

Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner idea? Try Cheesy Ranch Beef Pasta Delight! This one-pot meal combines hearty ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, zesty ranch seasoning, and tender penne pasta, creating a comforting dish in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers ease of preparation with minimal cleanup. Add in your favorite veggies for an extra boost, and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Dive into this comforting recipe today!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

2 cups uncooked penne pasta

1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

4 cups beef broth

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup canned diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these aromatics for about 2-3 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. Next, incorporate the ground beef, using a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is fully browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot if necessary.

    Add Pasta and Seasoning: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the cooked beef and stir well, cooking for an additional minute to allow the seasoning to infuse. Then, add the uncooked penne pasta and the canned diced tomatoes with their juices into the pot, ensuring everything is well combined.

      Pour in the Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth, ensuring that the pasta is completely submerged in the liquid. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches an al dente texture, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

        Creamy Finish: After the pasta is cooked to the desired firmness, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken beautifully.

          Season to Taste: Taste your delightful dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you're in the mood for extra cheesiness, stir in the remaining shredded cheddar cheese at this point until melted and creamy.

            Serve: Once finished, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Before serving, garnish the dish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your creamy and savory one-pot meal!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4