One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe: Easy, Creamy & Flavorful Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a meal that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, then look no further than One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta. This recipe combines the savory goodness of a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of creamy pasta, all cooked together in a single pot. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this dish will surely become a favorite. It’s quick, hearty, and guaranteed to satisfy those cheeseburger cravings, but in the form of a pasta dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Simple & Convenient

One of the most enticing aspects of this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is the convenience it offers. With just one pot, the clean-up is a breeze, which makes it ideal for anyone who prefers simple cooking and minimal mess. No need to boil pasta separately or prepare additional sides—everything comes together beautifully in one pot.

Cheeseburger Flavors in Pasta Form

If you love cheeseburgers, you’ll instantly fall for this creative take on the classic. The combination of ground beef, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce brings all the flavors of your favorite burger into the dish. Paired with cheddar cheese and creamy pasta, it’s a winning combination. Plus, you can add toppings such as diced pickles or crispy bacon to make it even more flavorful.

Quick & Easy to Make

This dish is incredibly fast to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish. The prep time is only 10 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings when you need to get food on the table fast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the steps, here’s a quick look at what you’ll need for the One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta:

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20) – This lean-to-fat ratio gives you juicy beef without being overly greasy.
• 1 small onion (diced) – Adds a sweet, aromatic base.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced) – Enhances the flavor profile with a bit of heat.
• 2 tbsp ketchup – A classic ingredient that gives the dish its distinctive burger flavor.
• 1 tsp yellow mustard – Adds a slight tang and enhances the cheeseburger taste.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the flavor with a rich umami punch.
• 1 tsp salt – To bring all the flavors together.
• ½ tsp black pepper – Adds a bit of spice and depth.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – For a subtle smokiness that complements the beef.
• 2 cups beef broth – This creates the rich sauce base for the pasta.
• 1 cup milk – Helps create the creamy texture.
• 8 oz elbow macaroni or small pasta – The perfect size for this dish.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The key to making this a cheesy, indulgent dish.
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional) – For extra creaminess and richness.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish and a burst of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned (about 5-6 minutes). Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the beef up into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet or pot, add the diced onion and cook it until it’s softened, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for the dish.

Step 3: Add Flavor-Building Ingredients

Next, stir in ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. These ingredients will give the pasta its signature cheeseburger taste. Stir everything together to ensure that the flavors meld perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Liquids and Bring to a Boil

Pour in the beef broth and milk, then bring the mixture to a boil. This will create a flavorful, saucy base for the pasta. Make sure to stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to come together.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Once the mixture is boiling, add the elbow macaroni or your choice of small pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the pasta simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the pasta to make sure it doesn’t overcook, as you want it to be tender but not mushy.

Step 6: Make It Creamy and Cheesy

Once the pasta is tender, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream (if using). The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture. Stir until everything is well combined and the pasta is coated with that delicious, cheesy sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Finally, garnish your One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta with fresh parsley to add a touch of color and freshness. Serve it warm, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

• Use lean ground beef: For a leaner dish, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Add extra cheese: If you’re a true cheese lover, feel free to sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top before serving.
• Boost the flavor with toppings: Adding crumbled bacon or diced pickles on top of the pasta will give it an even more authentic cheeseburger flavor.
• Make it spicy: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove with a splash of milk to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.

Can I substitute the beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth as a substitute, although it may slightly alter the flavor.

Can I make this dish without dairy?

Yes, to make a dairy-free version, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese and use a dairy-free alternative for milk and heavy cream.

Conclusion

One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is a game-changer when it comes to weeknight dinners. This easy, delicious, and hearty dish combines the best of two favorites: cheeseburgers and pasta. With its rich, cheesy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and savory beef, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, with just one pot and minimal clean-up. Whether you’re craving a classic cheeseburger or a comforting pasta dish, this recipe delivers both in every bite. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley, and feel free to get creative by adding your favorite cheeseburger toppings to make it even more indulgent. Try this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta today for a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

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