Cheeseburger Pasta

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If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and meaty pasta dish that comes together quickly, look no further than this Cheeseburger Pasta. This dish blends the bold flavors of a juicy cheeseburger with the comforting texture of creamy pasta, creating a hearty weeknight meal that the whole family will love. Think browned ground beef, melted cheddar, and tender pasta all wrapped in a creamy, tangy sauce.

Perfect for busy nights, Cheeseburger Pasta delivers on both flavor and ease. It’s a one-pan dinner idea that’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those evenings when you need something quick, filling, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just want a cozy meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Pasta

• Quick and easy: It uses basic pantry staples and cooks in just one skillet.
• Kid-approved: The cheesy beefy flavor is a hit with even the fussiest eaters.
• Budget-friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal.
• Customizable: Swap in ground turkey, add veggies, or kick it up with spices.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short-cut pasta like penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni works best for Cheeseburger Pasta. These shapes hold the beefy, cheesy sauce well and make every bite rich and satisfying. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti, as they don’t mix as well in this thick sauce. For added nutrition, you can use whole wheat pasta or protein-enriched versions.

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Ingredients for the Cheeseburger Pasta

To create a rich, cheesy, and satisfying Cheeseburger Pasta, you’ll need a handful of accessible ingredients that bring bold flavors and creamy texture to the dish:

• Ground beef: This is the star protein, giving the dish its hearty, meaty foundation.
• Short pasta (like rigatoni or penne): Holds the sauce beautifully and gives that perfect bite.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and sweetness to the beef mixture.
• Garlic: Infuses a warm, savory flavor into the sauce.
• Tomato paste: Provides a concentrated tomato flavor that balances the cream and cheese.
• Beef broth: Adds richness and depth to the sauce while helping cook the pasta.
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce silky and indulgent.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly into the pasta, delivering that signature cheeseburger taste.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A fresh garnish that adds color and a subtle herbaceous note.

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How To Make the Cheeseburger Pasta

Making this dish is as simple as cooking your favorite pasta and combining it with a flavorful beef and cheese sauce. Here’s how:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

Mix in the tomato paste and stir to coat the beef. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked pasta directly into the sauce. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the broth.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6: Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

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Serving and Storing Cheeseburger Pasta

Cheeseburger Pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while the cheese is melty and the sauce is creamy. This dish generously serves 4 to 6 people, making it great for a family dinner or even casual entertaining.

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing.

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What to Serve With Cheeseburger Pasta?

This hearty meal can be made even better with the right sides. Here are some tasty ideas:

Garlic Bread

The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread is a perfect match for scooping up extra sauce.

Simple Side Salad

Balance the richness with a crisp green salad topped with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Roasted Vegetables

Try oven-roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a nutritious and colorful side.

Dill Pickles

For a fun twist, serve with classic dill pickles to echo the cheeseburger theme.

Corn on the Cob

A sweet, juicy ear of corn rounds out this meal in true comfort food fashion.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may need a bit of extra oil or seasoning to maintain flavor.

Can I make Cheeseburger Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can cook the full dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all. It’s kid-friendly and mild, but you can spice it up with red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños if you like a kick.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s consistency.

What other pasta dishes should I try?

If you love comforting pasta dinners, you might also enjoy our Baked Ziti with Sausage, Creamy Chicken Alfredo, or One-Pot Taco Pasta — all family favorites that come together easily for dinner.

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