Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

Looking for a dish that combines the comfort of pasta with the mouthwatering flavors of a classic cheeseburger? This Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe is an easy, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheeseburger Pasta:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (choose lean beef for less grease)
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells work best)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk (whole milk for extra creaminess)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp tomato paste

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Optional: ½ tsp red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

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Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up Cheeseburger Pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
3. Remove excess grease if needed, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking!

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Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

1. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, mustard powder, and black pepper.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.

Pro Tip: This step enhances the depth of flavor, so don’t rush it!

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Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

1. Add the beef broth, milk, and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the uncooked pasta.

Pro Tip: Use a pasta that holds sauce well, like shells or macaroni, for the best texture.

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Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook in the liquid for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low.

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Step 5: Add the Cheese

1. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cheeseburger Pasta hot, garnished with:

• Fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.
• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra cheesiness.

Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Pasta

• Customize It: Add cooked bacon bits or diced pickles for an authentic cheeseburger taste.
• Make It Healthier: Use whole-grain pasta or swap in ground turkey for a lighter version.
• One-Pot Cleanup: Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven to keep everything in one dish.

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Storage and Reheating

Leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

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Cheeseburger Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the best of two worlds. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, and it’s so easy to make that it might just become a weeknight staple in your home. Enjoy!