Description
This BBQ Ranch Meatball & Cheddar Pasta Skillet is a creamy, cheesy, and smoky one-pan dinner that comes together fast. Tender meatballs, pasta, BBQ sauce, ranch, and melted cheddar make it a comforting family favorite with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb meatballs – frozen or homemade (fully cooked)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni – or any short pasta (penne, rotini, shells)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add meatballs and brown slightly on all sides (skip if already fully cooked and heated through).
- Add garlic powder and stir for 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add uncooked pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed (about 10–12 minutes).
- Stir in BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and corn (if using).
- Lower heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with green onions and serve warm.
Notes
- Use smoked BBQ sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- You can swap meatballs with ground beef or chicken.
- If mixture gets too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan Skillet
- Cuisine: American