Craving the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a cozy, one-pan dish? Cheeseburger Pasta is a Creamy Comfort Food that blends savory ground beef, melty cheddar, and tangy burger toppings with tender pasta for a meal that’s pure indulgence. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this quick recipe delivers big flavor in just 25 minutes. Whip up Cheeseburger Pasta for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Pasta
I’m obsessed with Cheeseburger Pasta because it’s a Creamy Comfort Food that’s easy to make yet feels like a treat. The creamy cheese sauce, savory beef, and familiar burger flavors like mustard and ketchup come together in a way that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. This Creamy Comfort Food is customizable, quick enough for weeknights, and perfect for adding your favorite burger toppings like pickles or extra ketchup!
Ingredients for Cheeseburger Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need for Cheeseburger Pasta (serves 4):
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp mustard
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp ketchup
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Pickles and extra ketchup for topping (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot (for pasta)
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
- Airtight containers for storage
Ingredient Tips
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but any short pasta like penne or rotini works well.
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (80/20) for less grease; drain excess fat if needed.
- Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded; sharp cheddar adds bold flavor.
- Mustard and Ketchup: Adjust amounts for a stronger or milder burger taste.
- Broth: Low-sodium beef broth allows better control of saltiness.
Directions for Cheeseburger Pasta
Let’s make this Cheeseburger Pasta!
Cook the Pasta
I cook 8 oz elbow macaroni according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Once al dente, I drain it in a colander and set it aside.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, I heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. I add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics
I add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Build the Sauce
I stir in 1 tsp mustard, 1 tsp ketchup, 1 cup beef broth, and ½ cup milk. I bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add Cheese and Season
I add 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy. I season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
I mix the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s fully coated in the cheesy beef sauce. I serve the Cheeseburger Pasta hot, topped with pickles and extra ketchup for that classic burger flair, if desired.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~550 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings)
- Macros per Serving: 45g carbs, 30g protein, 25g fat, 2g fiber
Variations for Cheeseburger Pasta
Try these twists on Cheeseburger Pasta:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils for a vegetarian Creamy Comfort Food.
- Spicy Twist: Add ½ tsp hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy Creamy Comfort Food kick.
- Cheese Mix: Use half mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooier texture.
- Bacon Boost: Crumble crispy bacon on top for smoky crunch.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Mix in diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ Sweet & Smoky Grilled Chicken Bowl for a hearty meal combo.
- Serve with a side of Layla Cooks’ Parmesan Pesto Roasted Cauliflower for a Creamy Comfort Food balance.
- Offer at a family dinner with a simple green salad.
Storage
I store Cheeseburger Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk to revive the creamy sauce, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. I avoid freezing the pasta, as the creamy sauce may separate, but the beef mixture can be frozen for up to 1 month and paired with freshly cooked pasta.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve Cheeseburger Pasta in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of pickles or extra cheese for a fun, burger-inspired look.
- Garnish: Add chopped green onions or a drizzle of ketchup for flair.
- Pairing: Enjoy with a cold iced tea or light beer to complement the Creamy Comfort Food.
- Portion Size: One scoop (1/4 of dish) per person for a satisfying meal.
- Occasions: Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or potlucks.
FAQs About Cheeseburger Pasta
Here are answers to some common questions about Cheeseburger Pasta:
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 recipe 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.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils for a vegetarian Cheeseburger Pasta version.
More Dinner Recipes
- Classic Moussaka: A Hearty, Soul-Warming Treat
- Honey Garlic Salmon Air Fryer
- Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
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!
Cheeseburger Pasta
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
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
- Stir in mustard and ketchup, followed by beef broth and milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, ensuring it is fully coated with the cheesy beef mixture.
- Serve hot, topped with pickles and extra ketchup if desired.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding milk to loosen the sauce, or microwave in a covered dish.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils.
- For added heat, include hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
- To make it lighter, use lean ground turkey and low-fat milk and cheese.
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