Comforting Ranch Beef & Cheddar Macaroni Melt
Tender Ranch Beef & Cheddar Macaroni Melt combines seasoned ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, and ranch flavor in a baked, bubbly pasta dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1½ cups milk or cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Sauté onion 3 minutes, then add garlic. Add beef and brown fully. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in ranch seasoning. Set beef mixture aside.
- In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute.
- Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in cream cheese until melted. Add 2 cups shredded cheddar. Stir until smooth.
- Return beef and pasta to the pan. Stir to combine.
- Optional: Transfer to baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and broil 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish and serve warm.
Notes
- Great for meal prep or freezer-friendly meals.
- Add hot sauce or jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Use freshly grated cheese for best texture.