One-pot Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like the savory, comforting aroma of One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta filling your kitchen on a chilly evening. This creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying dish brings together all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for something to satisfy my family's craving for both burgers and pasta. With only one pot to clean, it quickly became a staple in our home. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation!

Why You'll Love This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy and delicious dinner idea. One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience.

First, it’s a time-saver. Everything cooks in one pot, from browning the beef to simmering the pasta. You’ll have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Second, the flavors are unbeatable. Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce, with savory ground beef and hints of ketchup and mustard. It’s like biting into a cheeseburger, only better!

Third, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like pasta, ground beef, and cheese means you can whip this up without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch ingredients for a family meal.

Finally, clean-up is a breeze. With just one pot to wash, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your evening.

Ready to see how it all comes together? Let’s talk about the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta lies in its simple ingredients. Here’s how each one contributes to the dish's irresistible flavor:

• Ground beef: The heart of this dish, ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
• Pasta: Short pasta like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne works best here. Their shape helps capture the creamy sauce in every bite.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar is the star, but feel free to mix in a little Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Broth: Beef broth adds depth to the sauce, making it more flavorful than water alone.
• Ketchup and mustard: These classic burger toppings add a tangy sweetness and a subtle kick, mimicking the flavor of a cheeseburger.
• Milk: Whole milk or half-and-half helps create a luscious, creamy texture for the sauce.

Make sure you have a large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven to cook everything in one pot. It makes all the difference!

How To Make This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

This dish comes together in a snap! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time.

1. Brown the beef
   Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and 1 pound of ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper, then remove any excess grease if necessary.
2. Build the base
   Stir in 2 tablespoons of ketchup and 1 tablespoon of mustard, letting the flavors meld with the beef. Add 2 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of milk, stirring to combine.
3. Cook the pasta
   Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then stir in 2 cups of uncooked pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
4. Add the cheese
   Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, dreamy consistency.
5. Serve and enjoy
   Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of additional cheese, and serve hot. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty dinner with minimal effort—and maximum flavor.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta for later.

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm the pasta on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second increments, stirring between each.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste:

1. Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or try ground sausage for extra spice.
2. Make it vegetarian: Replace the beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
3. Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.
4. Add veggies: Sneak in some nutrition with diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach. Stir them in with the pasta to cook everything together.
5. Experiment with cheese: Mix and match cheeses like Gouda, pepper jack, or even Velveeta for a unique twist on the classic.

No matter how you tweak it, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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