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Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe You’ll Love
Searching for a Quick Weeknight Dinner?
When the end of the day looms and the thought of cooking a complicated meal feels overwhelming, what’s your go-to solution? We’ve all been there! The good news is, you don’t need hours to whip up something incredibly satisfying. This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta recipe is designed to tackle those busy weeknights with zero fuss and maximum flavor. Imagine all the comforting, savory goodness of a classic cheeseburger, transformed into a hearty pasta dish that the whole family will devour. It’s a one-pot wonder (almost!) that comes together in under an hour, making it a weeknight warrior you’ll come back to again and again. Ready to discover your new favorite comfort food?
Hearty Ingredients for a Satisfying Meal
The beauty of this cheeseburger pasta lies in its simplicity and the familiar flavors it uses. You likely have most of these pantry staples already, making it an even more accessible weeknight decision.
- 1 lb Ground Beef: The foundation of our “burger” flavor. Opt for 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped, this adds a sweet, aromatic base. Yellow or white onions work best.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Minced, for that essential pungent kick that complements the beef.
- 1 (15 oz) can Diced Tomatoes: Undrained, these contribute liquid and a slightly tangy, tomatoey depth to the sauce. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- 1 (8 oz) can Tomato Sauce: Provides a smooth, concentrated tomato base for our sauce.
- 4 cups Beef Broth: This is crucial for cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, infusing it with rich, savory notes. Low-sodium is a good choice to control saltiness.
- 8 oz Pasta: Elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne are excellent choices. They hold the sauce beautifully. Choose your favorite shape!
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey, classic cheeseburger goodness. Sharp cheddar offers more flavor. Gruyere or a Colby Jack blend are also delicious alternatives.
- 1/4 cup Ketchup: A touch of sweetness and tang that harks back to classic burger condiment.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a complex umami depth that’s key to that savory, “burger” taste.
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano: A subtle herbaceous note that rounds out the flavors.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
- Optional Toppings: Chopped fresh parsley, extra shredded cheese, diced pickles, or a drizzle of your favorite burger sauce.
Efficient Timing for a Busy Schedule
Compare this to other pasta dishes that can take 45-60 minutes from start to finish, our Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe is a significant time-saver without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
Simple Steps to Deliciousness
Follow these easy steps to create a crowd-pleasing cheeseburger pasta:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease. This initial browning is key for developing that deep, savory beef flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, beef broth, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked pasta to the simmering sauce. Stir well to ensure all the pasta is submerged. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the flavorful liquid as it cooks.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and creates a creamy, cheesy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash more beef broth or a little water.
Wholesome Nutrition
While this is a comfort food, it doesn’t have to be excessively unhealthy for a weeknight meal. Here’s a general overview (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: ~450-550 kcal
- Protein: ~25-30g
- Fat: ~20-25g
- Carbohydrates: ~40-50g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Healthier Alternatives & Swaps
Looking to make this recipe even more health-conscious without sacrificing flavor? Try these smart substitutions:
- Leaner Protein: Use 93% lean ground beef, ground turkey, or ground chicken.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap traditional pasta for whole wheat or a legume-based pasta (like lentil or chickpea pasta) for added fiber.
- Reduced Sodium Broth & Canned Goods: Opt for low-sodium beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
- Lighter Cheese: Use a reduced-fat cheddar cheese or a smaller portion of full-fat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This cheeseburger pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out your dinner:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect counterpoint to the rich pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Simple, healthy, and adds a touch of green.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: For soaking up any extra sauce (though there likely won’t be any left!).
- Pickle Spears: The classic burger accompaniment adds a briny crunch.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
To ensure your cheeseburger pasta turns out perfectly every time, steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Not Draining the Beef Grease: Too much grease can make the dish oily and heavy.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta cooked directly in sauce can become mushy if overcooked. Cook it just until al dente.
- Not Enough Liquid: Ensure there’s sufficient broth and tomato products to cook the pasta and create a sauce.
- Forgetting to Stir: Pasta can stick to the bottom of the pot if not stirred occasionally.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: Stirring the cheese in off the heat prevents it from becoming greasy or separated.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover cheeseburger pasta is a fantastic meal prep option. Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce, or microwave until heated through. The pasta can absorb a lot of liquid as it sits, so don’t be afraid to add a little extra moisture when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
***Can I make this vegetarian?***
Yes! You can omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Some vegetarian “crumbles” can also work well.
***Can I freeze this dish?***
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze cooled leftovers. The pasta texture might change slightly upon thawing, becoming a bit softer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop for best results.
***What type of pasta is best?***
Short-cut pastas like elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or shell pasta work wonderfully as they hold onto the sauce best.
***How can I make it spicier?***
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the oregano, or swirl in some sriracha or hot sauce at the end.
***Why is my sauce too thin?***
You might have added too much liquid, or the pasta might not have absorbed enough. Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the sauce, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) and simmer until thickened.
This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. It delivers all the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger in a fun, fuss-free pasta format.
Have you tried this recipe? What are your favorite cheeseburger pasta additions or toppings? Share your thoughts, tips, and any variations you loved in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family on social media!
Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake
This hearty, cheesy casserole combines all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger with comforting pasta. Made lighter with turkey bacon, it’s a family-friendly dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks!
Ingredients
- 8 ozelbow macaroni1lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)1/2 cuponion, chopped4strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1/2 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupketchup1 tbspmustard1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)1/2 cuponion, chopped4strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1/2 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupketchup1 tbspmustard1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cuponion, chopped4strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1/2 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupketchup1 tbspmustard1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 4strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1/2 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupketchup1 tbspmustard1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1/2 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupketchup1 tbspmustard1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupketchup1 tbspmustard1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cupketchup1 tbspmustard1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbspmustard1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tspgarlic powder1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsponion powder1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cupmilkSalt and pepper, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1️⃣Preheat the ovenPreheat your oven to375°F (190°C). Grease a9×13-inchbaking dish and set aside.2️⃣Cook the pastaBoil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.3️⃣Prepare the meat mixtureHeat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.Add the chopped onion and cook for3–4 minutesor until softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.4️⃣Add the seasoningsStir in the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for5 minutesto blend the flavors.5️⃣Combine with pastaIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Pour in the milk and stir well to coat everything evenly.6️⃣Assemble the casseroleTransfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- Preheat your oven to375°F (190°C). Grease a9×13-inchbaking dish and set aside.2️⃣Cook the pastaBoil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.3️⃣Prepare the meat mixtureHeat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.Add the chopped onion and cook for3–4 minutesor until softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.4️⃣Add the seasoningsStir in the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for5 minutesto blend the flavors.5️⃣Combine with pastaIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Pour in the milk and stir well to coat everything evenly.6️⃣Assemble the casseroleTransfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- 2️⃣Cook the pasta
- Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.3️⃣Prepare the meat mixtureHeat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.Add the chopped onion and cook for3–4 minutesor until softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.4️⃣Add the seasoningsStir in the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for5 minutesto blend the flavors.5️⃣Combine with pastaIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Pour in the milk and stir well to coat everything evenly.6️⃣Assemble the casseroleTransfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- 3️⃣Prepare the meat mixtureHeat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.Add the chopped onion and cook for3–4 minutesor until softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.4️⃣Add the seasoningsStir in the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for5 minutesto blend the flavors.5️⃣Combine with pastaIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Pour in the milk and stir well to coat everything evenly.6️⃣Assemble the casseroleTransfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for3–4 minutesor until softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.4️⃣Add the seasoningsStir in the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for5 minutesto blend the flavors.5️⃣Combine with pastaIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Pour in the milk and stir well to coat everything evenly.6️⃣Assemble the casseroleTransfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- 4️⃣Add the seasoningsStir in the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for5 minutesto blend the flavors.5️⃣Combine with pastaIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Pour in the milk and stir well to coat everything evenly.6️⃣Assemble the casseroleTransfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- Stir in the cooked, crumbled turkey bacon, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for5 minutesto blend the flavors.
- 5️⃣Combine with pastaIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Pour in the milk and stir well to coat everything evenly.6️⃣Assemble the casseroleTransfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Pour in the milk and stir well to coat everything evenly.6️⃣Assemble the casseroleTransfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- 6️⃣Assemble the casserole
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- 7️⃣BakeBake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- Bake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- 8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
Notes
Turkey bacon: Cooking the turkey bacon until crisp adds great texture and flavor.Cheese variations: Swap out the cheddar or mozzarella for Monterey Jack or a smoked Gouda for a unique twist.Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Customization: Add chopped pickles or diced tomatoes on top before serving for a true burger-inspired experience!
Cheese variations: Swap out the cheddar or mozzarella for Monterey Jack or a smoked Gouda for a unique twist.Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Customization: Add chopped pickles or diced tomatoes on top before serving for a true burger-inspired experience!
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.Customization: Add chopped pickles or diced tomatoes on top before serving for a true burger-inspired experience!
Customization: Add chopped pickles or diced tomatoes on top before serving for a true burger-inspired experience!
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