Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

Are You Craving a One-Pan Dinner?

When the weeknight rush hits, do you find yourself staring into the abyss of your pantry, desperately searching for a meal that’s both satisfying and quick? If you’re nodding along, chances are you’ve Googled “easy dinner recipes” or “quick family meals” more times than you can count. The good news is, you’ve landed on a winner! This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta recipe is designed to be your new weeknight hero. It combines the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the effortless joy of a pasta dish, all in one glorious pot. Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich, savory sauce, loaded with seasoned ground beef and gooey melted cheese. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s a delicious reality that’s surprisingly simple to make, proving that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a meal that your whole family will adore. Get ready to ditch the takeout menus and embrace this incredibly flavorful, speedy pasta that’s destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

The Delicious Components

The magic of this cheeseburger pasta lies in its simple yet effective combination of classic homestyle flavors. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that familiar, comforting taste we all love.

The Star of the Show: Ground Beef

We’ll start with a pound of ground beef. The fat content is up to you; 80/20 offers great flavor without being overly greasy, while leaner options are available if that’s your preference. This forms the savory, hearty base of our dish.

Substitution: For a leaner option, use 90% lean ground turkey or chicken. For a plant-based version, crumbled firm tofu or plant-based ground “meat” works wonderfully.

Aromatic Foundations

Finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic are essential for building depth of flavor. They soften and sweeten as they cook, providing a fragrant foundation that complements the beef beautifully.

Substitution: Shallots can be used instead of yellow onion for a milder, sweeter flavor. Garlic powder can substitute fresh minced garlic in a pinch, but use about 1 teaspoon.

The Creamy, Dreamy Sauce

Tomato paste provides a rich, concentrated tomato flavor. We’ll use beef broth for our liquid base, adding savory depth. A touch of Worcestershire sauce brings a delightful umami kick, and a splash of milk or heavy cream towards the end creates that signature creamy texture. Ketchup adds a hint of sweetness and tang, bridging the gap between pasta and burger.

Substitution: Vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth. For a dairy-free creaminess, use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

The Perfect Pasta Pair

Elbow macaroni or rotini are fantastic choices, as their nooks and crannies are perfect for catching the luscious sauce. You’ll need about 8 ounces, cooked al dente.

Substitution: Almost any short pasta shape will work beautifully – farfalle (bowties), penne, or even a fun shape like cavatappi.

The Irresistible Cheese

A generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese is non-negotiable for that classic cheeseburger experience. Sharp cheddar offers the most robust flavor, but a mild or medium blend works too.

Substitution: Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend of cheeses can be used for a slightly different cheesy profile.

Seasonings and Spices

Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of paprika will season the beef and sauce, enhancing all the delicious flavors without overpowering them.

Substitution: A dash of onion powder and garlic powder can boost the aromatic notes if you prefer.

Speedy Preparation & Cooking

Compared to many traditional pasta dishes that can take an hour or more, this cheeseburger pasta is a champion of efficiency. Its 45-minute total time makes it significantly faster than many comparable family meals, perfect for when time is of the essence.

Crafting Your Cheeseburger Pasta

Brown the Beef

Grab a large skillet or Dutch oven and set it over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned all over. Drain off any excess grease, leaving just a bit for flavor.

Sauté Aromatics

Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet (or momentarily remove it if your pan is crowded). Add your diced onion to the clear space and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften and look translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring it into the beef.

Deglaze and Simmer

Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a minute, stirring constantly, to toast the tomato paste slightly and help release its flavor. Pour in the beef broth and milk (or cream). Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s where the flavor lives!

Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. You want it to have a slight bite. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of the starchy pasta water.

Combine and Melt

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the simmering sauce and beef mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated. Gradually stir in about half of the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create a wonderfully gooey consistency. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Add the Finishing Touches

Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is perfectly creamy, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for a minute or two, just to melt the final layer of cheese. You can garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness, if desired.

Nutritional Snapshot

Please note that nutritional information can vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and specific brands. This is an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 550-650 kcal
• Protein: 25-35g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sodium: Varies greatly based on broth and cheese used.

Healthier Takes on a Classic

While this recipe is already a weeknight miracle, you can easily lighten it up further without sacrificing flavor:

• Swap the Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber, or even spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
• Leaner Protein: Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken as mentioned earlier.
• Reduced Fat Cheese: Use a reduced-fat cheddar, or simply use a bit less cheese overall.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in extra vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when you sauté the onions. They add nutrients and volume.
• Lower Sodium Broth: Choose low-sodium beef broth and be mindful of added salt.

Serving Your Masterpiece

This cheeseburger pasta is a hearty, complete meal on its own. However, for a more balanced plate, consider serving it with:

• A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans.
• Corn on the cob in the summer.
• Pickle spears on the side, just like a real burger!

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Let’s ensure your cheeseburger pasta is a smash hit every time:

• Overcooked Pasta: Always cook pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce. Mushy pasta is a no-go!
• Not Draining Grease: Excess grease can make the dish heavy and oily. Be sure to drain thoroughly after browning the beef.
• Lack of Seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Sauce Too Thick: Remember that reserved pasta water is your best friend for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

Storing Your Leftovers

Cool any leftovers completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if the pasta seems a bit dry.

Your New Go-To Dinner

This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a solution. It’s proof that you can achieve incredible flavor and comfort food satisfaction without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy families, picky eaters, and anyone who loves the classic taste of a cheeseburger, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple. Give it a try tonight and get ready for the requests to make it again and again!

Frequently Asked Questions

Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake

• Author: Chef Sara

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Description

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!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. 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!
2. 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!
3. 2️⃣Cook the pasta
4. 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!
5. 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!
6. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
7. 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!
8. 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!
9. 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.
10. 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!
11. 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!
12. 6️⃣Assemble the casserole
13. 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!
14. 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!
15. Bake in the preheated oven for20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
16. 8️⃣Cool and serveLet the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!
17. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!

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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!