BBQ Ranch Meatball & Cheddar Pasta Skillet

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When you need a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor, this BBQ Ranch Meatball & Cheddar Pasta Skillet delivers on every level. Combining tender meatballs, creamy ranch dressing, smoky barbecue sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is the definition of modern comfort food. Best of all, it’s a one-pan dinner, which means fewer dishes, less cleanup, and more time enjoying your meal.

This skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even casual entertaining. With simple pantry staples and bold, crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for kids, guests, or just yourself, this pasta skillet is guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Everything cooks in a single skillet for easy cleanup
• Bold, comforting flavors: BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese create a rich, savory balance
• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish
• Family-friendly: A hit with both kids and adults
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different meats, pasta shapes, or add-ins

Ingredients Breakdown (Explaining the Key Ingredients)

Each ingredient in this dish plays an important role in building flavor and texture:

• Meatballs: Provide hearty protein and make the dish filling. Frozen meatballs offer convenience, while homemade versions allow for more control over seasoning.
• Elbow macaroni: A classic pasta shape that holds sauce well. Short pasta ensures even cooking in one pan.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth and savory flavor to the pasta as it cooks, far better than water alone.
• BBQ sauce: Brings smoky sweetness and tang. The flavor profile can be adjusted depending on whether you choose sweet, spicy, or smoky varieties.
• Ranch dressing: Adds creaminess and a subtle herb flavor that balances the BBQ sauce perfectly.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts smoothly and enhances the richness of the dish.
• Frozen corn (optional): Adds pops of sweetness and color, creating balance against the savory elements.
• Garlic powder: A simple seasoning that boosts overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Olive oil: Prevents sticking and helps brown the meatballs for added flavor.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a deep skillet: This prevents spills and allows the pasta to cook evenly.
• Stir occasionally: Keeps pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.
• Add cheese gradually: This helps it melt smoothly and evenly.
• Adjust sauce ratios: Increase BBQ sauce for smokiness or ranch for creaminess based on taste preference.

Variations and Customizations

1. Protein swaps: Use turkey meatballs or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
2. Cheese alternatives: Try Monterey Jack, Colby-Jack, or smoked cheddar for a different flavor profile.
3. Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
4. Vegetable add-ins: Bell peppers, peas, or diced tomatoes blend well with the flavors.
5. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: Easily adapts to dietary needs with minimal changes.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad and ranch or vinaigrette for contrast.
• Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
• A glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the smoky BBQ flavors nicely.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate after thawing.

Popular Questions

Can I use uncooked frozen meatballs?
Yes, but ensure they are fully cooked before adding the pasta to avoid excess moisture.

What pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells cook evenly and hold sauce well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to one day ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Caroline

BBQ Ranch Meatball & Cheddar Pasta Skillet

A quick and hearty one-skillet meal made with tender meatballs, pasta, BBQ ranch sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights and family-friendly dinners.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 540

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb fully cooked meatballs
• 8 oz elbow macaroni or other short pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• salt and black pepper, to taste
• sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large deep skillet with lid
• wooden spoon or spatula
• measuring cups and spoons
• knife and cutting board

Method

 

1. Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Add meatballs and cook until heated through and lightly browned.
2. Pour in chicken broth and stir in uncooked pasta. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
3. Stir in BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese and frozen corn if using. Stir gently until melted and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 1–2 more minutes, then remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and serve warm.

Notes

For extra richness, add an additional handful of cheese before serving. If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a small amount of warm broth. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

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