Cheeseburger Pasta: A Comfort Food Favorite

What is Cheeseburger Pasta?

Are you craving a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and remarkably easy to make? If you’re like millions of home cooks looking for that perfect weeknight meal that feels like a treat, then you’ve likely wondered: “What is the best way to capture the joy of a cheeseburger in a pasta dish?” Enter Cheeseburger Pasta! This recipe is the ultimate comfort food hug in a bowl, marrying the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef and melty cheese with the wonderful chewiness of pasta. It’s a culinary fusion that takes all your favorite elements of a classic cheeseburger and transforms them into a hearty, family-pleasing pasta casserole that’s quicker than you might think. Forget standing over a hot grill or flipping burgers one by one; we’re bringing all that flavor home in one glorious pot!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to cheesy, beefy heaven. This recipe is quite forgiving, so don’t stress if you don’t have an exact match for everything. The goal is deliciousness!

Ground Beef

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 is ideal for flavor and tenderness) – The classic choice for rich burger taste. For a leaner option, 90/10 works well too.

Pasta

• 12 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or shells) – Choose a shape that can hold onto that delicious sauce!

Sauce and Seasonings

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter – For sautéing aromatics and adding richness.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds a sweet, aromatic base. Yellow or white onions work best.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that savory depth.
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce – The smooth, tomatoey foundation of our sauce.
• 1/4 cup ketchup – For that signature sweet and tangy burger sauce flavor.
• 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon) – Adds a subtle piquant kick. Dijon offers a bit more complexity.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – A secret weapon for umami and depth.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – For a touch of smoky, barbecue-like flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Season generously throughout the cooking process.
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water – To help create a smooth, saucy consistency.

Cheeses

• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild) – The star of the show! Sharp cheddar provides more tang.
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese – Adds extra creaminess and meltability.

Optional Toppings

• Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish – For a pop of color and freshness.
• Sesame seed buns (for serving, if desired!) – A fun nod to the burger inspiration.

Timing Is Everything

This Cheeseburger Pasta comes together in about 40 minutes, which is pretty standard for a one-pot pasta dish of this nature. Many elaborate dinner recipes can take well over an hour, so this is a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, fast, and flavorful.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Ready to dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness? Follow these simple steps for a truly spectacular Cheeseburger Pasta.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Crumble the ground beef into the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. This is where the savory foundation of your dish begins to build!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the beef is browning, cook your pasta in a separate pot of salted boiling water according to package directions, but *al dente* – slightly undercooked, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This magical water is key to a silky sauce!

Step 3: Craft the Flavorful Sauce

To the pot with the browned beef, add the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine. Pour in the beef broth or water and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring to dissolve any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the drained, al dente pasta to the pot with the meat sauce. Stir well to coat every strand. Now, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir continuously over low heat until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy and luscious. If the sauce seems a little thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The starch in the water will help emulsify the sauce, making it wonderfully smooth.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hot Cheeseburger Pasta into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. For an extra playful touch, serve alongside toasted sesame seed buns for dipping! Enjoy this ultimate comfort food experience.

Nutritional Highlights

While individual nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used, a typical serving of Cheeseburger Pasta (approximately 1.5 cups) is generally:

• Calories: 450-600 kcal
• Protein: 25-35g
• Fat: 20-30g (including saturated fat)
• Carbohydrates: 35-45g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sodium: Varies significantly based on broth, sauces, and added salt.

Making it Healthier (Without Sacrificing Flavor!)

Looking to lighten up this indulgence? You can make smart swaps without losing the essence of a cheeseburger:

• Leaner Protein: Use 93% or 97% lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduced Cheese: Use a sharper cheddar so you can use less cheese while still getting a strong flavor. Or, blend in some lower-fat cheese.
• Add Veggies: Mix in finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with the onions for added nutrients and bulk.
• Lighter Sauce Base: Cut back slightly on ketchup or use a lower-sugar variety. You can also increase the tomato sauce proportion.

Elevate Your Serving

This dish is a meal in itself, but here are a few ways to make it even better:

• Fresh Toppings: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a light sour cream can mimic a burger topping. Add fresh lettuce shreds or chopped tomatoes for a fresh crunch.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad is the perfect counterpoint to the richness.
• Garlic Bread: Because who doesn’t love garlic bread with pasta?
• Pickle Spears: A classic burger accompaniment that works surprisingly well here!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for the best Cheeseburger Pasta:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Al dente is key! It will continue to cook in the hot sauce.
• Not Draining Grease: Excess grease can make the dish greasy and less appealing.
• Skipping Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is crucial for achieving a smooth, luxurious sauce.
• Undersalting: Seasoning is crucial. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at multiple stages.

Storing Your Masterpiece

Let the Cheeseburger Pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken when chilled.

Conclusion: A Comfort Food Dream

Cheeseburger Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s that perfect blend of nostalgia and convenience, delivering all the craveable flavors of a backyard barbecue favorite in an easy, comforting pasta dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple. Give it a try and taste the magic for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Delight

• Author: Chef Sara

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Description

This creamy, cheesy pasta dish combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting texture of baked pasta. It’s a family-friendly favorite that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ozpasta (penne or macaroni works best)1lb ground beef1onion, diced2cloves garlic, minced1 cupketchup1 cupmustard1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 1lb ground beef1onion, diced2cloves garlic, minced1 cupketchup1 cupmustard1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 1onion, diced2cloves garlic, minced1 cupketchup1 cupmustard1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 2cloves garlic, minced1 cupketchup1 cupmustard1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 1 cupketchup1 cupmustard1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 1 cupmustard1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 1 cupshredded cheddar cheese1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 1/2 cupheavy creamSalt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• Salt and pepper to taste1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• 1 tbspolive oilOptional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping
• Optional:chopped pickles, turkey bacon bits, additional cheese for topping

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Instructions

1. 1️⃣Cook the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.Drain the pasta and set it aside.2️⃣Prepare the Beef Mixture:Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.3️⃣Make the Cheese Sauce:In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper if needed.4️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.Drain the pasta and set it aside.2️⃣Prepare the Beef Mixture:Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.3️⃣Make the Cheese Sauce:In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper if needed.4️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
4. 2️⃣Prepare the Beef Mixture:Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.3️⃣Make the Cheese Sauce:In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper if needed.4️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.3️⃣Make the Cheese Sauce:In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper if needed.4️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
6. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.3️⃣Make the Cheese Sauce:In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper if needed.4️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
8. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper to taste.3️⃣Make the Cheese Sauce:In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper if needed.4️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
9. 3️⃣Make the Cheese Sauce:
10. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat.Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper if needed.4️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
11. Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper if needed.4️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
12. 4️⃣Preheat the Oven:
13. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
14. 5️⃣Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
15. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, ketchup, mustard, and cheese sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
16. 6️⃣Assemble and Bake:Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
17. Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
18. Sprinkle additional cheese, turkey bacon bits, or chopped pickles on top if desired.
19. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
20. 7️⃣Serve:Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!
21. Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory delight!

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Notes

Add a layer of breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch before baking.For a spicy twist, mix in a tablespoon of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
For a spicy twist, mix in a tablespoon of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.