Spicy Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Juicy Meatballs
Looking for a recipe that’s bold and flavorful, yet easy to make for your next party? Then look no further than my Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Meatballs! This dish packs a punch with the perfect amount of spiciness, savory bacon cheddar, and zesty ranch flavors. The creamy parmesan cheese sauce and hearty meatballs made with ground pork will keep your guests coming back for more- it’s sure to be a party favorite!
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to follow. Perfect for busy home chefs who want to serve up an amazing meal without being stuck in the kitchen all day. With just 12 simple ingredients and 15 minutes of prep work, this meal can be on your table in no time. The recipe makes enough to feed a crowd or can be easily halved for smaller gatherings.
But don’t let the simplicity of this dish fool you- it’s still impressive enough to earn you rave reviews from your guests. And because it’s so versatile, you can easily customize it to fit any dietary restrictions or personal preferences – from swapping out the meat for veggies or adding in extra spices to make it even hotter!
So go ahead, give this mouthwatering recipe a try and become the star of your next party. With its irresistible flavors and easy preparation, Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Meatballs is sure to wow everyone who tries it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I promise you, you’ll love this kickin’ ranch pasta with meatballs recipe. It’s one of the most delicious and easy-to-make recipes you can prepare in just 15 minutes. The combination of ranch pasta with juicy meatballs will make your taste buds dance with joy.
With its mouth-watering blend of cheddar cheese, bacon, and zesty ranch dressing, this dish is the epitome of comfort food that will have you reaching for seconds. You’ll fall in love with the rich and creamy sauce, made from a perfect blend of fresh chives and parmesan cheese.
What I particularly love about this pasta recipe is how easily customizable it is. You can switch out the ground pork for beef or turkey to suit your protein preference. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding in some diced tomatoes or mushrooms to give it a veggie twist.
This recipe is perfect for those times when you want to whip up something quick and delicious but also impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. Trust me, all your guests will be raving about this pasta meal long after the night has ended.
So why settle for ordinary when you can indulge in the heart-warming flavors of bacon cheddar ranch pasta meatballs? Give this divine dish a try and experience a taste sensation that’s sure to keep you coming back for more!
Ingredient List
Get ready to turn up the heat with this Kickin’ Ranch Pasta With Meatballs recipe that packs a flavorful punch with every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
Meatballs:
- 2 lbs ground pork
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp coarse black pepper
Pasta:
- 2 lbs fresh fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp margarine
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
Tomato Sauce:
- 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp bacon cheddar or cheddar ranch seasoning
- (Optional) Add one can of tomato sauce for extra richness
For the meatball lovers out there, this recipe is for you! These meatballs are easy to make and packed with flavor. The pasta, on the other hand, has the creaminess of ranch to balance the spiciness of the meatballs. According to your preference, you could use either fettuccine or penne pasta. Lastly, tomato sauce adds an extra layer of richness to this dish.
The Recipe How-To
Mixing the Meatballs
Start by combining 1 lb ground pork, 1 egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, and 2 tbsp Kickin’ Ranch Pasta in a mixing bowl. Use your hands to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Then sprinkle in some sea salt and coarse black pepper to taste.
Form small balls out of the mixture, about the size of a golf ball.
Cooking the Meatballs
Heat up 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the pasta meatballs and cook until they’re browned on all sides, for about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain excess oil from the pan and set them aside.
Cooking the Pasta
Steam or boil 2 lbs of fresh fettuccine., for about five to six minutes or according to package instructions. Then drain it well.
Making the Tomato Sauce
Now, we’ll make the sauce that will be perfect with our pasta and meatballs.To make tomato sauce is simple, just simmer several ounces of diced tomatoes over medium heat. Then mix it well with 1/4 cup of ranch dressing.
Bringing It All Together
Time now to assemble our dish! Place your Kickin’ Ranch Pasta Meatballs into a large mixing bowl . Add two cups of the tomato sauce, and mix everything together. You can add optional toppings like chopped chives or more Parmesan cheese if desired.
In another pan, melt 2 tbsp of margarine, then sprinkle with some coarse black pepper or any spices you like. Toss in your drained fettuccine while stirring constantly, allowing it to coat well with the melted butter.
Plating: Serve your pasta topped with Ranch Meatballs, crusty bread as a side, and your favorite greens with bacon-cheddar-ranch dressing on top. Enjoy this simple yet delicious family-style meal for dinner tonight!
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to cooking, it’s always fun to play around with different ingredient combinations to discover new flavors and textures. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try with Kickin’ Ranch Pasta With Meatballs:
– Protein: Not a fan of pork? No problem! You can substitute ground beef, turkey, or even chicken for the pork in this recipe. For a seafood twist, try using shrimp or chunks of white fish like tilapia.
– Pasta: While fresh fettuccine is recommended for this recipe, you can also use other types of pasta such as penne, linguine or spaghetti. Additionally, gluten-free noodles can also work well.
– Tomato Sauce: For those who prefer a little more spice in their dishes, adding diced tomatoes with green chilies instead of plain diced tomatoes could give an extra zing of flavor.
– Ranch Dressing: Feel free to experiment with different kinds of dressing flavors like bacon cheddar ranch, creamy Caesar or blue cheese while also using the Kickin’ Ranch seasoning.
– Meatballs: To mix things up a bit, you can substitute beef meatballs for the pork und use other seasoning such as Everything Bagel Seasoning or Roasted Garlic Herb seasoning blend.
By trying out these substitutions and varieties in the Kickin’ Ranch Pasta With Meatballs recipe, you may discover a new favorite meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Serving and Pairing
When it’s time to serve up this delicious Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Meatballs, don’t forget to add in some tasty sides and pairings to make it a complete meal.
First things first, let’s talk about how to serve the pasta itself. You can garnish the dish with beautiful green chives or additional parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture. As a side salad, I think a simple and refreshing mixed greens salad would be perfect with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
The pairing options available for this recipe are endless! If you’re looking for something to drink that will complement the flavors of the pasta, then a light and crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would do the trick. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try serving iced tea or lemonade with slices of fresh lemons.
If you’re going for a more hearty meal, consider serving this dish with garlic bread or dinner rolls on the side. The bread will provide an extra crunch to complement the pasta and meatballs, and the garlic flavor will tie everything together.
Additionally, if you want to prepare another main dish aside from the Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Meatballs, some options might include stuffed chicken, tilapia baked in tomato sauce, egg rolls, or even bacon cheeseburgers. You can also opt for lighter fare like phyllo cups filled with diced tomatoes and diced cheddar ranch meatballs.
Whatever you choose to pair this deliciously savory pasta meal with, rest assured that these options won’t disappoint!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to party prep, nothing beats a make-ahead recipe. That’s why I love this Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Meatballs recipe – it’s perfect for making ahead of time. You can easily cook the pasta and meatballs separately according to the recipe directions, and then assemble them together before serving.
To store any leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for up to three days. When you’re ready to reheat the pasta and meatballs, you can do so on the stove or in the microwave. Just be sure to add a splash of water or broth to the dish to keep it from drying out.
If you’re planning on making this recipe ahead of time and reheating it later, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be sure to cool the pasta and meatballs completely before storing them in the refrigerator. This will help prevent bacterial growth and keep your food safe.
Secondly, consider adding a bit of extra liquid (like broth or tomato sauce) to the dish when reheating on the stove or in the oven. This will help keep everything moist and flavorful.
Lastly, if you’re worried about soggy leftovers, try reheating the pasta and meatballs separately. Reheating them together can sometimes result in mushy noodles that aren’t very appetizing.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create easy make-ahead dishes like this Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Meatballs recipe that are perfect for entertaining!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the best results with this recipe, here are some tips and tricks that you should keep in mind.
Firstly, ensure that you properly season both the meatballs and pasta. Using sea salt and coarse black pepper will add a nice kick to the dish.
It is also crucial to cook the meatballs until they are fully cooked through but not overcooked; otherwise, they may turn dry and become tough to chew. Similarly, make sure that the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid it from turning into mush.
When mixing the ingredients for the meatballs, do not overwork the mixture or else they may become dense and rubbery when cooked. Also, be careful not to pack them too tightly; instead, form loose balls.
Another tip is to use fresh fettuccine pasta as it cooks faster and adds a great texture to the dish. If you can’t find fresh pasta, you can use dried penne or any other type of short pasta.
Ensure that you have all your ingredients measured out before starting cooking so that you can add them into your dish at just the right time.
Lastly, adding some chopped chives as a garnish before serving will give your kickin’ ranch pasta with meatballs an extra fresh and delicious taste!
FAQ
Now that we have gone through how to make Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Meatballs, it is time to answer some frequently asked questions. Read on to learn more about recipe details, substitutions and variations, and storing and reheating tips for this mouth-watering dish.
What pasta goes better with meatballs?
Ah, good old spaghetti – the quintessential long pasta shape that’s perfect for pairing with a variety of sauces. From creamy alfredo to tangy marinara, spaghetti knows how to play well with any flavor profile. Plus, it’s the tried and true pasta to accompany those beloved meatballs. Join me as we dive into the world of spaghetti and explore how to make the most out of this iconic pasta.
What can I make with meatballs instead of spaghetti?
I have been tasked with providing recipes for a party that my client plans on hosting. These recipes include Jen’s Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Tasty Spicy Rice Pilaf, Fried Cabbage and Egg Noodles, Peperonata, Peanut Butter Noodles, Tasty BBQ Corn on the Cob, Disney’s Ratatouille, and ‘Chinese Buffet’ Green Beans.
Why is spaghetti and meatballs healthy?
This recipe for spaghetti and meatballs is a nutritious option that provides a balance of essential nutrients. With lean beef as a source of iron and protein, tomato sauce for its lycopene content, and pasta to provide a boost of carbs, this dish is a great option for a wholesome meal. Keeping portions moderate is recommended to avoid consuming too much, which could negate its benefits.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Kickin’ Ranch Pasta with Meatballs #RSC recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With its savory seasoning and kick of heat, this meal is sure to impress your guests and leave them feeling satisfied. Whether you’re hosting a party, or simply looking for a quick and tasty dinner option, this recipe has got you covered.
Don’t hesitate to try out different variations and substitutions based on your personal preference. But whatever you do, make sure to follow the recipe details closely for perfect results. With its combination of fresh ingredients and mouth-watering flavors, this pasta dish will make a great addition to any meal plan.
So go ahead and try it out today! And if you want more recipes and food inspiration, be sure to explore these keywords: bacon cheeseburger, tilapia, phyllo cups, pasta salad, fish, ranch dressing, whole tilapia, potato, tomato sauce, egg rolls and bacon ranch. Trust me; you won’t regret it. Happy cooking!
Kickin’ Ranch Pasta With Meatballs #RSC Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 1/4 cups parmesan cheese, grated, divided
- 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 egg
- 1 ounce Hidden Valley Original Ranch Seasoning Mix, divided
- 1 ounce hidden valley ranch fiesta dip mix, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated fresh fettuccine
- 6 tablespoons margarine
- 3 cups whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped small
Instructions
- Mix together the ground pork, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, greek yogurt, egg, half of the Hidden Valley Original Ranch dressing/seasoning mix, half of the Hidden Valley Ranch Fiesta dip mix, pepper and salt with hands.
- Roll into approximately thirty 1 1/2 inch diameter meatballs.
- Place on 11x16 greased baking sheet and place into preheated oven at 350 degrees for approximately 20 to 25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
- While meatballs are cooking, cook and drain noodles according to package;
- In a large skillet heat margarine, whipping cream, the remaining Hidden Valley Original Ranch dressing/seasoning mix, the remaining Fiesta Ranch Dip Mix, and pepper on medium heat until slightly thickened. ( Approximately 7 to 8 minutes. Do not boil. )
- Add remaining Parmesan cheese and continue to cook 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Place cooked meatballs in skillet and coat with sauce.
- Place fettuccine in serving bowl. Pour sauce and meatballs over fettuccine. Sprinkle chives over dish.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!