Description
Easy Cheeseburger Pasta is a comforting one-pan meal that combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheddar cheese in a rich, flavorful sauce inspired by classic cheeseburger flavors. This quick stovetop dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Liquids
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet or pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is thoroughly browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Sauté onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add pasta and liquids: Pour in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, milk, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Incorporate cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy and cheesy sauce coating the pasta and beef.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch before serving hot.
Notes
- Use any short pasta such as shells or rotini as a substitute for elbow macaroni.
- For extra cheeseburger flavor, add diced pickles or additional shredded cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
