Name: Cheeseburger Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon mustard; 1 teaspoon ketchup; 1 cup beef broth; 1/2 cup milk; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Pickles and extra ketchup for topping (optional)

Cheeseburger pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings the deliciousness of a classic cheeseburger right to your pasta plate. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food with the savory taste of ground beef, melted cheddar, and all the familiar burger toppings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on traditional pasta, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this recipe is to prepare, yet it feels so indulgent and comforting. The combination of creamy cheese, savory beef, and tangy mustard and ketchup creates a deliciously familiar flavor profile that’s like having a cheeseburger, but in pasta form. It’s the ultimate comfort food, with the added bonus of being quick enough for any busy night. The best part? I can top it off with pickles and extra ketchup, just like a real cheeseburger, making it customizable to my personal taste.

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni

1 lb ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, chopped

1 teaspoon mustard

1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoon ketchup

1 cup beef broth

Salt and pepper to taste

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Pickles and extra ketchup for topping (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I begin by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once done, I drain it and set it aside.

In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat. I then add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned.

Next, I toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.

I stir in the mustard and ketchup, followed by the beef broth and milk. I bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.

Afterward, I add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir it in until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.

I season everything with salt and pepper to taste.

Finally, I stir the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing everything well so that the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy beef mixture.

I serve it hot, topped with pickles and extra ketchup if I want to add a bit of burger flair.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: I can swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian option.

Spicy twist: I can add a dash of hot sauce or a few chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for some extra heat.

Cheese mix: I can experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.

Bacon: I could crisp up some bacon and crumble it on top for an added crunch and smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, I simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce if needed. I can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Related Recipes:

Hearty Cheeseburger Casserole

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I can use any type of pasta I prefer, like penne, shells, or rotini. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary based on the pasta shape.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the cheeseburger pasta in advance and store it in the fridge. It can be reheated when ready to serve.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

I don’t recommend freezing the pasta as the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating. However, the beef mixture can be frozen and reheated with freshly cooked pasta.

Can I make it lighter?

To make a lighter version, I can use lean ground turkey instead of beef, and opt for low-fat milk and cheese. The dish will still have great flavor!

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! I can mix in some vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger pasta is the perfect combination of two favorite comfort foods—cheeseburgers and pasta. It’s quick, delicious, and satisfying, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. I love how versatile the recipe is, allowing me to add my own personal touches or make adjustments based on what I have on hand. This dish has become one of my go-to comfort foods, and I’m sure it’ll become one of yours too!

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