Nothing beats the convenience and comfort of a homemade dish that combines familiar flavors into one delightful meal. Our delectable cheeseburger pasta is a family favorite that brings the classic taste of an American cheeseburger into a quick and easy pasta dish, perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this recipe both satisfying and simple to follow. Get ready to wow your family with a new staple that cleverly blends pasta with the timeless taste of a cheeseburger.
Growing up, Friday nights were all about family movie marathons complete with comforting homemade meals. My mom would often whip up her special cheeseburger pasta, served piping hot as we crowded around the living room table. The aroma of melted cheese and browned beef signaled the start of our family night in, and to this day, that scent instantly takes me back to those cherished evenings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not just pleasing to the palate but incredibly easy to make. What sets it apart is its ability to bring together the rich flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting texture of pasta. It’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something deliciously different.
Ingredients Notes
The key to nailing this recipe is quality ingredients. Choose lean Ground Beef to avoid excess fat. For cheese, sharp cheddar will give a bold flavor, but feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess. If you’re out of fresh onions, onion powder will do the trick. Additionally, canned diced tomatoes can be replaced with fresh tomatoes during peak season for a brighter taste.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat and set the beef aside temporarily.
Step 2
In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent. This should take about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3
Add the browned beef back to the skillet, along with canned diced tomatoes and ketchup. Stir to mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Step 4
Stir in uncooked pasta and beef broth. Cover and let simmer for about 12–15 minutes until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
Step 5
As the final touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta, cover, and allow it to melt. Stir everything well before serving.
Storage Options
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in zip-lock freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, use Ground Turkey instead of beef. Vegetarians can substitute meat with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles. Feel free to spice things up with a dash of hot sauce or by adding jalapeños for some heat. Swap the cheddar for gouda or Swiss cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines as a standalone meal, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a more rounded dinner. It’s great for potlucks and can be easily increased to serve a crowd. As the flavors improve with time, it also makes an excellent option for meal prep throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, although short pasta like penne or elbow macaroni works best for capturing all the flavors.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Simply replace the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure your beef broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to enjoy this dish safely.
What can I do if my dish turns out too dry? If you find this dish drier than you like, stir in extra beef broth or a bit of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the moisture level to suit your taste.
Cheeseburger Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef use lean beef for healthier option
- 8 ounce pasta such as elbow macaroni
- 2 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar preferred
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 cup ketchup
- 0.25 cup mustard
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink; drain fat.
- Add onion powder, garlic powder, ketchup, and mustard to beef; stir to combine.
- Stir in cooked pasta, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese until cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Cheeseburger Pasta.
