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One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta is a quick, comforting, and delicious meal combining juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and melty sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes using just one pot, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and anyone craving the flavors of a homemade cheeseburger transformed into a convenient pasta dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or small pasta
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Extras

  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Pickles
  • Bell peppers
  • Spinach
  • Mushrooms
  • Paprika, chili flakes, or hot sauce for spice
  • Gluten-free pasta (for gluten-free option)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed to keep things from getting greasy.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: To the browned beef, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing their sweet, savory aroma.
  3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and milk or cream. Stir to combine, then add the uncooked pasta. Make sure the pasta is evenly submerged; this ensures it cooks perfectly as it soaks up the flavorful liquid.
  4. Simmer Until Pasta is Tender: Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Stir in Cheese and Season: Remove the pot from heat, then fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and silky. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting for your preferred cheeseburger flavor.
  6. Serve Warm: Dish out immediately, or get creative with your toppings like ketchup, mustard, pickles, or shredded lettuce to customize each portion.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for the best melt and classic cheeseburger flavor.
  • Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust liquid quantities as needed depending on your pasta type for perfect texture.
  • Prep ingredients ahead of time to speed up cooking on busy nights.
  • Let the pasta sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy pasta, cheeseburger pasta, one pot meal, quick dinner, ground beef pasta, creamy pasta, family dinner, comfort food