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One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta
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One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta is a comforting and quick weeknight meal that combines seasoned ground beef with tender pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Prepared in a single pot, this dish is perfect for busy evenings, offering minimal cleanup while delivering rich flavors that the whole family will enjoy. Customizable with various proteins, vegetables, and cheeses, it’s a versatile and satisfying meal option.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb ground beef

Pasta

  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or any small pasta

Dairy

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream

Liquids

  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes or tomato sauce

Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned and crumbly. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to develop the classic cheeseburger flavor.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook until the onions are soft and fragrant, creating a flavorful base.
  3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce). Stir in the uncooked pasta, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 10-12 minutes.
  4. Stir in Cheese and Milk: Lower the heat to low. Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce is creamy and smooth, coating each piece of pasta.
  5. Finish and Serve: Give everything a final stir to ensure even flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Choose smaller pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells to better capture the sauce and beef bits.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; slightly al dente is best to avoid a mushy texture after adding cheese.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a richer, more robust flavor and better melting.
  • Stir frequently when adding cheese to prevent clumps and keep the sauce smooth.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to thicken and improve consistency.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheeseburger pasta, one pot meal, ground beef pasta, cheesy pasta, quick dinner, weeknight recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/one-pot-cheesy-cheeseburger-pasta/