Ingredients
Pastas & Liquids
- 12 ounces short pasta of choice (shells, bowties, elbows)
- 3 cups beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼-½ cup dill pickles, chopped
Seasonings & Extras
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even cooking and a crumbly texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the beef and cook for a few minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its fragrance without burning.
- Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste: Stir in the ground mustard, paprika, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly and deepen the flavor base.
- Cook Pasta in Broth and Cream: Add the short pasta, beef broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy coating for the pasta.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the cheeseburger pasta topped with chopped dill pickles and extra cheese if desired, adding a tangy crunch to complement the rich dish.
Notes
- Use your favorite short pasta shapes for best results like shells, bowties, or elbows.
- Adjust the quantity of pickles depending on your preference for tanginess.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure to stir frequently while cooking the pasta to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American