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One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 9 reviews

This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines all the deliciousness of a cheeseburger with the convenience of a pasta dinner. Ground beef, onions, garlic, and savory seasonings are simmered with pasta, beef broth, and cream to create a rich, cheesy sauce topped with shredded cheddar cheese and dill pickles for a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American