Cheeseburger Pasta (One-Pot Recipe) – A Quick & Flavorful Comfort Meal

Introduction

Craving the juicy, cheesy goodness of a classic cheeseburger but want something quick and easy for dinner? This Cheeseburger Pasta (One-Pot Recipe) is your perfect solution! Combining tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce, this dish delivers all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a simple, one-pot meal.

This recipe is quick, easy, budget-friendly, and family-approved—making it perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a hearty, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this guide, we’ll cover step-by-step instructions, variations, serving suggestions, expert tips, and frequently asked questions to help you master this dish. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Kid-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
• Cheesy & Comforting: A rich, creamy, and cheesy meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients.
• Customizable: Add extra toppings, swap ingredients, or make it spicy.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for depth of flavor)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)

Optional Toppings & Garnishes:

• Chopped pickles (adds a tangy bite)
• Ketchup & mustard drizzle (for classic cheeseburger flavor)
• Crumbled bacon (for extra smoky goodness)
• Fresh parsley or green onions (for color and freshness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Seasonings & Tomato Paste

Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Add tomato paste and mix well to coat the beef evenly.

4. Pour in Tomatoes & Broth

Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Stir to combine.

5. Cook the Pasta

Add uncooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to submerge it in the liquid. Cover and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

6. Add the Cheese & Cream

Once the pasta is fully cooked, reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

7. Serve & Garnish

Remove from heat and let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with pickles, bacon, or fresh parsley for extra flavor.

this PIN FOR LATER

Variations to Try

1. Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

• Stir in crispy cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Top with crushed bacon bits before serving.

2. Spicy Cheeseburger Pasta

• Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tsp hot sauce.
• Use pepper jack cheese for extra heat.

3. Deluxe Cheeseburger Pasta

• Mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or jalapeños.
• Swap cheddar for a blend of Swiss, provolone, or Monterey Jack.

4. Low-Carb/Keto Version

• Replace pasta with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash.
• Use heavy cream and extra cheese for richness.

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Pasta

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad – A crisp, fresh contrast to the richness.
• Steamed Vegetables – Lightens up the meal with extra nutrients.
• French Fries – Classic cheeseburger vibes with extra crunch.

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Pasta

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Simmer just until al dente for the best texture.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: This allows the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta evenly.
• Adjust the Liquid: Add a splash of broth if the sauce gets too thick.
• Make It Ahead: This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months (thaw overnight before reheating).

Reheating Instructions:

• Stovetop: Heat on low with a splash of broth or milk.
• Microwave: Warm in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
• Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes covered with foil.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.

2. What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Elbow macaroni, rotini, or shells hold the sauce best.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except cheese & cream) to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4 hours, stir in cheese & cream, and serve.

4. Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

It’s best to cook the pasta in the sauce for flavor absorption, but you can mix in cooked pasta at the end if needed.

5. How do I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream and dairy-free cheese.

Conclusion

This Cheeseburger Pasta (One-Pot Recipe) is the ultimate easy, cheesy, and comforting meal that brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a hearty pasta dish. With minimal prep, easy cleanup, and endless variations, it’s a perfect go-to recipe for weeknights.

Try this delicious, creamy, and flavor-packed dish today and enjoy a satisfying meal that the whole family will love!

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