Follow these steps to create a delicious Cheddar Ranch Ground Beef Pasta Bake:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion if using and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in ranch seasoning, milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let flavors combine. If adding vegetables, stir them in at this stage.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Baking allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to create a golden, gooey topping, making this dish visually appealing as well as delicious.
Serving and Storage
Cheddar Ranch Ground Beef Pasta Bake is ideal for serving as a main dish. Pair it with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for a quicker option.
- Freezing: Allow to cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Tips
- Drain Pasta Well: Avoid soggy casseroles by thoroughly draining pasta before combining with the beef mixture.
- Cheese Variations: Mix cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra gooeyness and flavor.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Frozen peas, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms work well for added color and nutrition.
- Even Layering: Spread pasta evenly in the baking dish to ensure uniform baking and cheese melting.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a few hours before baking and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Conclusion
Cheddar Ranch Ground Beef Pasta Bake is a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines creamy ranch flavor, savory ground beef, and melty cheese with tender pasta. Easy to make, versatile, and satisfying, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual dinners.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a flavorful, cheesy, and comforting pasta bake that the whole family will love. Leftovers store and reheat well, making it practical for meal prep and busy schedules.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rotini, shells, or rigatoni all work well.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace ground beef with cooked lentils, tofu crumbles, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze the pasta bake?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely. Frozen peas, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli are great options.