Short Description
This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and meaty goodness, all cooked in a single pot for ultimate convenience. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have a satisfying and delicious meal ready in no time. This recipe brings the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a quick and easy pasta dish that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal preparation.
- One-Pot Convenience: Fewer dishes to wash means less hassle after cooking.
- Comforting and Satisfying: Combines classic cheeseburger flavors with creamy pasta.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to different dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
- Kid-Friendly: A meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Pasta (such as elbow macaroni or shells)
- Beef broth
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- Mustard
- Cheddar cheese
- Milk
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika (optional)
- Parsley or green onions for garnish
Directions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir to combine, then add the pasta.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Cheese and Milk: Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and milk until the cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy sauce.
- Season to Taste: Add salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Stir well.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Variations
- Turkey or Chicken Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5-10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, lean ground turkey, and reduced-fat cheese to make a lighter version.
Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
It’s best to cook the pasta in the broth for maximum flavor, but you can stir in pre-cooked pasta toward the end.
What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini hold the sauce well and work best for this dish.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Use chopped fresh tomatoes, but add a bit more broth to compensate for the liquid content.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and onions first, then add all ingredients (except cheese and milk) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Stir in cheese and milk at the end.
What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair well with this dish.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir occasionally while cooking, and ensure there is enough liquid in the pot.
Can I add bacon to this recipe?
Absolutely! Crumbled bacon adds a smoky flavor that enhances the cheeseburger taste.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up while stirring over low heat.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based milk alternative such as almond or oat milk.
Conclusion
This Simple One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is the ultimate weeknight meal—easy, delicious, and made with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just craving a comforting dish, this recipe delivers all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy pasta form. Give it a try and enjoy a stress-free, satisfying dinner!
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Simple One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe with Minimal Effort
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and meaty meal made in a single pot for ultimate convenience. A quick and easy dinner ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir to combine, then add the pasta.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Cheese and Milk: Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and milk until the cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy sauce.
- Season to Taste: Add salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Stir well.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Turkey or Chicken Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheeseburger pasta, one-pot pasta, easy dinner, family meal, quick pasta recipe
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