If you’re after a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s as effortless as it is delicious, the One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is going to become your new go-to. This dish brings together tender ground chicken, cheesy cheddar, and the unmistakable zing of ranch seasoning all silky-smooth in a luscious creamy sauce, with perfectly cooked penne pasta soaking up every bite. It’s an unbeatable combination that not only satisfies your hunger but also feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it all comes together in one pot, which means minimal cleanup and maximum joy. Let me walk you through making this absolute winner that’s destined to brighten up any weeknight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about this One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how they each play an essential role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and texture. From the rich cheddar cheese to the fragrant ranch seasoning that gives this dish its signature taste, every component is a star.
- Ground chicken (1 lb): The lean protein base that cooks up tender and soaks in all those savory flavors beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps brown the chicken and infuses a subtle richness to the dish.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Adds a fragrant punch that makes every bite taste homemade and fresh.
- Ranch seasoning mix (1 packet, about 1 oz): The secret weapon for that classic ranch flavor that’s creamy and tangy.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Creates the perfect cooking liquid for the pasta, infusing it with savory depth.
- Milk (2 cups, whole recommended): Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Brings the bold, melty cheesiness that coats every noodle with pure comfort.
- Uncooked penne pasta (8 oz): The sturdy pasta shape that holds the sauce well and cooks right in the pot.
- Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): Adds velvety creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Optional garnish – fresh parsley or green onions: A pop of color and freshness that brightens each serving.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart as it cooks. Let it brown nicely, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because that caramelization adds a rich, savory foundation. Once the chicken is almost done, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell irresistible at this point.
Step 2: Add the Ranch Seasoning
Sprinkle the packet of ranch seasoning over the browned chicken. Give it a good mix so every morsel is coated with those tangy, herby flavors. This seasoning mix is the heart of the recipe, making it taste like a secret family recipe without any fuss.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Milk
Next, pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure all those spices and browned bits from the bottom of the pan are well incorporated into the liquid. This mixture will soon transform into that unforgettable creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Cook
Now, toss in your uncooked penne pasta right into the pot. Cover the skillet and let it cook over medium-low heat for about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check for tenderness. The pasta will absorb all the flavors while cooking in the sauce, eliminating the need for extra pots and simplifying dinner time.
Step 5: Stir in Cream Cheese
Once the pasta is tender, add the softened cream cheese. Stir it in until it melts completely, which adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce that makes it ultra indulgent.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar
Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and utterly irresistible. This step is where all the cheesy goodness really shines through.
Step 7: Season to Taste
Finally, season the dish with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference. Feel free to add a splash of milk if you’d like to loosen the sauce a bit. This little tweak will help you achieve the perfect consistency every time.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor that beautifully complements the richness of the dish. Now dig in and enjoy all that creamy, cheesy, ranch-infused goodness in one simple pot!
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions on top is a great way to add a pop of vibrant green and a hint of mild freshness to each creamy bite. A little extra cracked black pepper can also enhance the flavor contrast without overshadowing the dish.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and filling on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, consider crisp green salads with light vinaigrette, roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, or even simple garlic bread to soak up extra sauce. These sides add texture and lightness, balancing the creamy pasta beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in mini cast-iron skillets or colorful bowls straight from the stove to the table. You can also top with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or a handful of toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch. This presentation will impress guests and make every bite feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, but be sure to give it a good stir when reheating.
Freezing
This pasta dish can be frozen, but because of the creamy cheese sauce, the texture might slightly change. If you want to freeze it, place leftovers in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for best taste. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or separating of the sauce, and bring back that luscious creamy texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or shells—just adjust cooking time accordingly since different pastas cook differently.
What can I use instead of ground chicken?
If you prefer, ground turkey or ground beef both work well and will give the dish a slightly different yet delicious flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, you could try sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat substitutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free as written due to the typical pasta used, but you can easily swap in gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Just be sure to check the labels of your seasonings and broths for hidden gluten.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free twist, substitute milk with almond or oat milk, use vegan cream cheese, and replace cheddar with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The ranch seasoning might also need to be checked or made from scratch to ensure it’s dairy-free.
How spicy is the ranch seasoning?
Ranch seasoning is generally mild and herb-forward, with just a hint of tanginess and pepper. If you like a little more heat, you can easily add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne when cooking.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your ultimate comfort meal ready in no time! The One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe combines ease, flavor, and creamy goodness in one glorious pot that’s perfect for busy nights or when you simply want something that feels like a treat. Once you try this, I promise it’ll become a staple in your rotation and maybe even a beloved favorite that your family asks for again and again. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy every tasty bite!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a quick and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Ground chicken is cooked with minced garlic and flavorful ranch seasoning, then simmered with penne pasta in a creamy blend of chicken broth and milk. The addition of cream cheese and shredded cheddar makes the sauce rich and cheesy, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions adds a fresh finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty pasta combines ease and deliciousness all in one pot for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein and Seasonings
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add seasoning: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the cooked chicken. Stir well to coat the meat completely with the seasoning.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet. Cover the pan and cook on medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Melt the cream cheese: Stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts and incorporates smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Add cheddar cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it fully melts and the sauce becomes thick and velvety.
- Season to taste: Add salt and black pepper as needed to adjust the flavor. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest sauce, but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne with the ranch seasoning.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the pasta to avoid it sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Feel free to substitute penne with other pasta types like rotini or shells if desired.
