One-Pot Garlic Ranch Beef Penne with Sweet Corn

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One-Pot Garlic Ranch Beef Penne with Sweet Corn: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

In the world of quick, hearty, and family-approved meals, One-Pot Garlic Ranch Beef Penne with Sweet Corn shines as a weeknight hero. This creamy pasta dish features tender penne, juicy ground beef, sweet corn, and a rich, cheesy garlic ranch sauce that’s so good, it begs for second helpings. And the best part? It all comes together in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a cozy bowl of comfort food, this satisfying pasta recipe delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and easy prep all in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Beef Penne Recipe

  • 🕒 Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights
  • 🍝 One-pot convenience — less cleanup, more flavor
  • 🧄 Garlic and ranch — a dynamic flavor duo that transforms simple ingredients
  • 🧀 Cheesy and creamy — thanks to sharp cheddar and rich heavy cream
  • 🌽 Sweet corn — adds texture and pops of sweetness to balance the savory sauce
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Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this one-pot creamy garlic ranch pasta, gather the following pantry staples and fresh ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 10 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: Chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, or additional cheese

How to Make Garlic Ranch Beef Penne in One Pot

🔥 1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink. If needed, drain excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.

🧄 2. Add Garlic and Butter

Add 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic to the pan with the browned beef. Stir for 1–2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and infused into the meat.

🥣 3. Stir in Ranch, Broth, and Cream

Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix and pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients. The creamy ranch broth forms the base of the luxurious sauce that coats the pasta.

🍝 4. Add Uncooked Penne Pasta

Add the penne pasta directly to the pot. Stir to coat the pasta in the creamy broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 12–14 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

🌽 5. Add Corn and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the sweet corn and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.

The sweet corn adds contrast to the savory beef and creamy sauce, creating a balanced and satisfying bite.

🧂 6. Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally topped with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

Tips for the Best One-Pot Beef Penne

✅ Use High-Quality Ground Beef

Lean ground beef (85–90%) ensures a flavorful dish without excessive grease.

✅ Choose a Bold Cheddar

Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds bold flavor. White cheddar or a Mexican blend also works well.

✅ Customize the Veggies

Swap corn for peas, chopped spinach, or diced red bell pepper for variety and extra nutrition.

✅ Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Simmer just until the pasta is tender. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in creamy sauces.

Flavor Variations to Try

  • Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
  • Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in black beans and cumin for a Southwestern feel.
  • Bacon Boost: Stir in crispy bacon pieces for added smokiness and crunch.
  • Cream Cheese Addition: Add a few ounces of cream cheese for an ultra-rich sauce.µ

Serving Suggestions

This hearty pasta dish is filling on its own, but it pairs well with:

  • Garlic bread or cheesy toast
  • Simple green salad with vinaigrette
  • Roasted broccoli or asparagus

For drinks, serve with iced tea, lemonade, or a chilled beer for a casual meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

🧊 Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen after sitting overnight, making it great for meal prep.

🔥 Reheating Tips

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 60-second bursts, stirring between intervals.

❄️ Freezing Instructions

This dish can be frozen, though the cream may separate slightly when reheated. Freeze in portions and reheat gently with extra broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Why This Dish Works Every Time

The combination of garlic, ranch seasoning, cheese, and creamy broth guarantees a flavorful result. Cooking the pasta directly in the broth allows it to soak up all the delicious seasoning, creating a one-pot masterpiece of taste and texture.

With minimum ingredients, one pot, and irresistible flavor, this Garlic Ranch Beef Penne with Sweet Corn is bound to become a go-to dinner favorite in your kitchen.

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