Cheeseburger Pasta

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If you’re searching for a comforting dinner that brings all the flavors we love from a classic cheeseburger into one delightful dish, look no further! This cheeseburger pasta is creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it combines pasta, ground beef, and cheesy goodness in one pot.

Plus, it’s super easy to make and is sure to please everyone sitting at your table.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Cheeseburger pasta is a game changer.

It takes the beloved cheeseburger flavors—think juicy beef, melty cheese, and a hint of tangy mustard—and transforms them into a creamy pasta dish that you can whip up in about 30 minutes.

Who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that requires minimal cleanup? Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or just yourself, this dish will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

To make this delicious cheeseburger pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion (about 1 cup, sliced)
• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor and juiciness)
• 1 tablespoon Montreal steak seasoning
• 2 cups elbow pasta
• 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
• 2 cups (225 g) cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
• 14 ounces (400 g) canned fire roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

How To Make Cheeseburger Pasta

Getting started on this delicious dish is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step!

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

In a large pot or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

Add the sliced yellow onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll know you’re on the right track!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next, add the pound of ground beef to the pot.

Break it up with a wooden spoon and sprinkle the Montreal steak seasoning over the top.

Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Don’t skip this step; browning the beef adds incredible flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the 2 cups of elbow pasta, followed by 2 cups of beef broth.

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Cover and let it cook according to the pasta package instructions, usually about 7-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of that flavorful broth.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Tomatoes

After the pasta is done, it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the 14 ounces of canned fire roasted tomatoes, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of tomato paste.

Mix everything together, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Now comes the best part—cheese! Add 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring until it’s melted and combined into that luxurious creamy sauce.

Reserve the remaining half cup for topping later.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is mixed together, serve the cheeseburger pasta hot.

If you want to elevate it a bit, sprinkle some of the remaining cheddar on top and let it melt just a little.

You can also add sliced green onions for a fresh touch.

Expert Tips

To ensure your cheeseburger pasta turns out perfect every time, consider these tips:

• Use high-quality ground beef for a richer flavor.
• Don’t skip the browning step for the beef; it adds depth to the dish.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your taste. If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes!
• Reserve some cheese for garnishing; it adds a professional touch!

Variations and Customizations

There are plenty of ways to customize this dish to match your taste preferences! Here are some ideas:

• Swap out elbow pasta for shells or penne for a different texture.
• Add veggies! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be tossed in for extra color and nutrition.
• For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
• If you prefer, use a different type of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, but you never know!), let the cheeseburger pasta cool completely.

Then, transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it looks too thick.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives can work well in place of ground beef.

Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, and cook everything just before you plan to serve.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.

Is there a vegetarian option for this pasta?

Certainly! Simply use a meat substitute like lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat instead.

You can also add extra veggies to enhance the dish.

How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe as it stands is not spicy at all.

However, you can easily add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to kick up the heat if you love spicy food!

Conclusion

Cheeseburger pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a creamy, satisfying pasta dish.

It’s quick to make, easy to personalize, and downright delicious.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to impress your friends, this cheeseburger pasta will not disappoint.

So grab your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and get ready to dig into a hearty bowl of cheesy goodness! Enjoy!

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