Ranch Mac ‘N Cheese

chefs-mate chefs-mate
Servings: 8 Difficulty: Intermediate
Jump To Recipe Print Recipe
Creamy, tangy, and herb-infused comfort food with a crunchy topping
Ranch Mac 'N Cheese recipe image
Recipe tools
Use print to print the article or save it as a PDF. “Save article” downloads a clean HTML copy for offline reading.

This Ranch Mac ‘N Cheese reimagines a classic comfort dish by infusing the creamy sauce with zesty ranch seasoning. The blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses melts into a rich, velvety coating for the elbow macaroni, while the addition of sour cream adds a delightful tang. Finished with a topping of crushed Saltine crackers and Parmesan cheese, it offers a perfect contrast of soft pasta and crunchy, savory bits. It&# 226;€™s a quick, easy weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Great for family meals, potlucks, or when you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and satisfying.

Ranch Mac 'N Cheese recipe image
Print Recipe

Ranch Mac ‘N Cheese

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8 Calories: 118.3

Description

This Ranch Mac 'N Cheese reimagines a classic comfort dish by infusing the creamy sauce with zesty ranch seasoning. The blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses melts into a rich, velvety coating for the elbow macaroni, while the addition of sour cream adds a delightful tang. Finished with a topping of crushed Saltine crackers and Parmesan cheese, it offers a perfect contrast of soft pasta and crunchy, savory bits. It&# 226;€™s a quick, easy weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Great for family meals, potlucks, or when you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and satisfying.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain well.
  2. In a large Dutch oven or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  3. Stir in the milk, ranch dressing mix, lemon pepper, garlic powder, and garlic salt.
  4. Add the cubed Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses to the pan.
  5. Cook and stir constantly until the cheese has melted and the mixture begins to thicken slightly.
  6. Reduce heat to low and fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked macaroni and crushed Saltine crackers to the cheese sauce.
  8. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
  9. Spoon the macaroni into a serving dish and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 118.3kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10.9g17%
Saturated Fat 3.7g19%
Cholesterol 1.2mg1%
Sodium 177.8mg8%
Total Carbohydrate 3.1g2%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 3.0g
Protein 2.1g5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a crispier top, transfer the macaroni to a baking dish, top with Parmesan and crushed crackers, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.

You can substitute the ranch dressing mix with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives, plus extra garlic and onion powder for a homemade flavor profile.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Keywords: ranch, macaroni, cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, vegetarian, colby cheese, monterey jack, sour cream, crackers, parmesan, family meal, creamy pasta, herb seasoned, quick recipe, kid friendly
Recipe Card powered by WP Delicious