Cheddar BBQ Ranch Meatball Pasta
This one-skillet Cheddar BBQ Ranch Meatball Pasta combines tendermeatballs, pasta, smoky BBQ sauce, creamy ranch, and melted cheddar for a bold,comfort-food dinner that comes together fast with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb meatballs frozen or homemade. If using frozen, make sure they’re fully cooked.
- 8 oz elbow macaroni any short pasta you like penne, rotini, shells.
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce your preference
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen corn optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Season Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm for about 30 seconds.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet. If frozen, cook them for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re heated through and slightly browned. If fresh, cook until browned on all sides and fully cooked inside.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the uncooked pasta. Make sure the pasta is submerged as much as possible. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is just tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and frozen corn (if using). Stir gently until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to let everything come together.
- Remove from heat. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top if desired. Serve warm straight from the skillet.
Video
Recipe Tips
Use a deep skillet or braiser with a lid so the pasta cooks evenly without sticking. If the sauce thickens too much before the pasta is done, add a splash of extra chicken broth and stir to loosen it up.
