Name: One-pot Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or macaroni); 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp mustard; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp ketchup; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe repertoire! This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta delivers on flavor, convenience, and versatility.

First, it’s all about simplicity. Everything – pasta, beef, sauce – cooks in the same pot. That means fewer dishes and less cleanup, making it perfect for busy nights when you need dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

The flavors are a winner, too. The combination of juicy ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and the rich creaminess of the sauce creates a dish that’s reminiscent of your favorite cheeseburger but even cozier.

Don’t underestimate the versatility of this recipe. Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap in turkey or plant-based meat, or make it gluten-free, this pasta adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Finally, it’s a meal the whole family will devour. Even picky eaters can’t resist the familiar cheeseburger flavors. Serve it up with a simple salad, and dinner is done!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, everyday ingredients, each contributing to the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ground beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, go with ground turkey or chicken – just add a touch of olive oil to keep it moist.
Pasta: Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work best for this recipe. Their ridges and curves hold onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the star here, delivering a bold, classic cheeseburger flavor. For an extra kick, mix in some pepper jack or gouda.
Tomato paste: Adds a touch of acidity and richness, giving the sauce a subtle nod to classic ketchup flavors without being overpowering.
Beef broth: This is the base of the sauce, infusing every bite with deep savory flavor. For a richer taste, try low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness.

You’ll also need milk, onions, garlic, and a few pantry spices like paprika and mustard powder to elevate the flavors. As for equipment, a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is all you need.

How To Make This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Making this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is as easy as it gets! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.

Sauté the beef and aromatics: Heat your pot over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed, then stir in diced onions and minced garlic. Let them cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Build the sauce: Add a generous tablespoon of tomato paste, stirring until it coats the beef. Pour in the beef broth and milk, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook the pasta: Stir in your uncooked pasta and a pinch of salt. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 12-15 minutes. The starch from the pasta helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
Add the cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in your shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts into a creamy, luscious sauce. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle in a touch of mustard powder or smoked paprika.
Garnish and serve: Top your pasta with fresh parsley, diced pickles, or even crispy bacon bits for a fun twist. Serve hot and watch it disappear!

The entire process takes about 25 minutes, making this a true weeknight lifesaver.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta stores beautifully and makes an excellent next-day lunch.

Refrigerator: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The sauce will thicken slightly, but a splash of milk when reheating will bring it back to its creamy glory.
Freezer: If you’d like to freeze portions, let the pasta cool completely before storing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meatless option.
Healthier twist: Use whole-grain pasta or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein. You can also replace heavy cream with low-fat milk.
Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. Jalapeños make a great topping if you love spice.
Cheese swap: Experiment with cheeses! Monterey jack, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses will bring their own unique flavors to the dish.
Add veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even frozen peas to sneak in some extra nutrition.

With so many ways to customize, this recipe is a true blank canvas. Have fun experimenting and make it your own!

This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish never disappoints. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to let me know how you customize it – I’d love to hear your twists on this classic!