One-pot Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like the cheesy, savory goodness of One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta to bring everyone to the table. With perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is pure comfort food magic. The best part? It’s all made in a single pot, saving you time and effort on cleanup!

This recipe became a lifesaver on busy weeknights when my family craved something indulgent yet easy to prepare. Now, it’s a weekly staple that never fails to impress. Ready to dive into this one-pot wonder? Let’s get started.

Why You'll Love This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Get ready to meet your new favorite dinner! One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is everything you love about a cheeseburger – minus the bun – in a warm, hearty pasta dish.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. From browning the beef to simmering the pasta, everything comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy evenings when time is of the essence.

Secondly, this recipe is budget-friendly. With simple pantry staples like pasta, ground beef, and cheese, you’ll whip up a meal that satisfies your family without breaking the bank.

Lastly, this dish is kid-approved. The familiar flavors of cheeseburgers make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. And because it’s made in one pot, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner together.

Ingredients Notes

The key to the perfect One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta lies in the quality and combination of its simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and tenderness. For a leaner option, 90/10 works too, though you may want to add a splash of olive oil for richness.
• Pasta: Short pasta like elbow macaroni or penne is ideal for this dish. Their shape helps hold onto the cheesy sauce, giving you a perfect bite every time.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is the way to go for maximum flavor. Grate it fresh if possible for the best melting results.
• Beef broth: This is the secret to building deep, savory flavor while cooking the pasta directly in the pot.
• Tomato paste: Adds a tangy, umami-rich element that complements the beef and cheese beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, creamy sauce that ties everything together. You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter option.

Special equipment: A large, deep skillet or Dutch oven is perfect for cooking this recipe evenly while holding all the ingredients.

How To Make One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Making this dish is as straightforward as it is delicious. Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Brown the beef
   Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the beef is browned and no longer pink, drain any excess grease and return it to the skillet.
2. Build the flavor base
   Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step enhances the depth of flavor and sets the stage for the sauce.
3. Add liquids and pasta
   Pour in beef broth, a cup of water, and a splash of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then stir in your chosen pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Make it cheesy
   Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat. Stir in freshly grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve and enjoy
   Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or an extra handful of cheese if desired. Serve hot, straight from the pot.

Storage Options

One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable to suit your taste and dietary preferences:

• Meat swap: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Cheese options: Mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a little Parmesan for a different cheesy twist.
• Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Vegetable boost: Stir in frozen peas, diced bell peppers, or chopped spinach for added nutrients.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, but keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta recipe proves that weeknight meals can be simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. With its comforting cheeseburger vibes and minimal cleanup, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try tonight and see why it’s an instant family favorite!

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