One-pot Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger transformed into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish. This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta combines tender pasta, juicy ground beef, and a velvety cheese sauce for a meal that’s hearty, quick, and oh-so-satisfying.

I discovered this recipe during a busy weeknight scramble, searching for a dish that would please both kids and adults alike. With just one pot and minimal cleanup, it has become a go-to for those nights when I crave something indulgent without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Get ready to add a new favorite to your weeknight dinner rotation. This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta isn’t just a meal – it’s a lifesaver for busy days and picky eaters.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With everything cooked in a single pot, you’ll save time on both preparation and cleanup. This recipe is perfect for when you need a quick and fuss-free dinner.

Next, the flavors are absolutely irresistible. The savory ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that’s as comforting as your favorite cheeseburger – without the bun!

It’s also budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples like pasta, ground beef, and shredded cheese, you can feed a family of four for less than the cost of takeout.

Finally, this recipe is versatile. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or make it your own. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables, cheese, or even ground turkey for a lighter twist.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each one brings something essential to the table, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Ground Beef: This forms the base of the dish, delivering that classic burger flavor. Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, or swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic staples add depth and richness. A finely diced onion and minced garlic bring out the savory notes in the dish.
• Pasta: Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or shells work best for this recipe. They hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Beef Broth: This serves as the cooking liquid for the pasta, infusing every piece with savory goodness. You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as alternatives.
• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts into a creamy, gooey sauce that ties the dish together. For extra cheesiness, mix in some mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
• Ketchup and Mustard: These classic burger condiments add tang and sweetness to the sauce, creating that unmistakable cheeseburger taste.
• Milk and Heavy Cream: These ingredients make the sauce luxuriously creamy without being overly heavy. Feel free to use half-and-half as a substitute.

No special equipment is needed – just a large pot or deep skillet with a lid to make this dish a breeze.

How to Make This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Creating this delicious meal is as simple as it is satisfying. With just a few steps, you’ll have a family-friendly dinner on the table in no time.

1. Cook the Beef and Aromatics
   Heat a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Pasta and Broth
   Stir in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Incorporate the Dairy
   Once the pasta is tender, stir in the milk and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
4. Add the Cheese
   Remove the pot from the heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately and savor the cheeseburger-inspired goodness!

From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy evenings.

Storage Options

This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is just as good the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back its creamy consistency.
• Freezer: While the texture of the pasta may change slightly, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Healthier Option: Use whole wheat pasta and ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that’s still packed with flavor.
• Vegetarian Twist: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth.
• Add Veggies: Stir in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and color. Spinach or kale can be folded in at the end for a boost of greens.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, pepper jack, or even a smoky cheddar for a unique flavor profile.

No matter how you customize it, this recipe is sure to please.

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