One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

If you love everything about a classic cheeseburger and also dream of cozy pasta dinners, this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta will steal your heart. This dish wraps up the savory, cheesy, and satisfyingly saucy flavors you crave—in one pan, with a fraction of the fuss. Imagine tender pasta twirled through a creamy blend of ground beef, melty cheddar, and tomatoes, with all the ease of a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving comfort food, this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta brings all the nostalgic joy of a cheeseburger, in a delicious, totally crave-worthy twist.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial part in nailing those signature burger flavors, while keeping prep and cleanup a breeze. Here’s what you need and why you need it.

• Ground beef: The hearty backbone, delivering those iconic burger notes and richness.
• Pasta shells (or elbows): Their curves hold all the cheesy sauce, making each bite blissfully flavorful.
• Yellow onion: Sweet and aromatic, onions add depth and a hint of classic diner magic.
• Garlic: For a subtle, savory kick that marries the other flavors perfectly.
• Diced tomatoes (canned): They add tang, moisture, and a pop of color to the sauce.
• Beef broth: Layers in savory flavor and creates the perfect pasta-cooking liquid.
• Cheddar cheese (shredded): Brings melty, gooey comfort to every mouthful—don’t skimp!
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce silky, so the pasta feels truly luscious.
• Ketchup: Secret sauce for real cheeseburger flavor and a sweet-tangy finish.
• Yellow mustard: A little squirt truly brings home that authentic cheeseburger taste.
• Salt and pepper: Just what you need to balance and sharpen all the flavors.
• Optional toppings (pickle slices, green onions, sesame seeds): For that final cheeseburger flourish—have fun here!

How to Make One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it begins to sizzle. Toss in the chopped onion and cook everything together until the beef loses its pinkness and the onion softens, creating that irresistible cheeseburger base. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing already.

Step 2: Bring in the Burger Flavors

Drain off any excess fat from the pan if needed. Stir in the ketchup and mustard, coating the beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes, scraping up any bits caught on the bottom for maximum flavor. This is where the classic burger tang and savory goodness take over.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Simmer

Stir in the pasta shells, making sure they’re mostly submerged in the saucy mixture. Let the One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. This usually takes 12 to 15 minutes—just enough time to set the table.

Step 4: Make it Creamy and Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Now, sprinkle in that glorious shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce and everything comes together in a creamy, comforting embrace. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and marvel at that perfect yellow-orange, burger-worthy color.

Step 5: Serve with Cheeseburger Flair

Take the pot off the heat. If you’re feeling playful, top your One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta with classic garnishes: sliced pickles, chopped green onions, or even a sprinkling of sesame seeds. Serve hot and let everyone dig in to all that gooey, beefy, cheeseburger-inspired comfort.

How to Serve One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

Garnishes

A few fun toppings turn this pasta into the ultimate cheeseburger experience! Try sliced pickles for tangy crunch, a handful of green onions for fresh zip, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to echo a burger bun. If you love heat, a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños adds a zesty twist.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a full meal, but sides make it a real spread. Serve with crisp lettuce salad tossed in a quick vinaigrette or a bowl of sweet corn on the cob for that classic cookout vibe. Garlic bread or a lightly toasted bun can mop up the extra cheesy sauce—just like the best part of a burger meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring the wow factor by serving One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta in mini cast iron pans or ramekins, topped with sliders on the side for a playful dinner. For casual gatherings, offer a “build-your-own” topping bar and let guests customize their bowls—just like loading up their favorite burger.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making it perfect for grab-and-go lunches or fast weeknight reheats.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, too! Simply spoon cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, pressing out any extra air. It will keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally as it heats through to keep the cheese creamy and the pasta soft. Top with fresh garnishes to revive that fresh-from-the-pot vibe.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While shells and elbows are traditional for holding the sauce, any short, sturdy pasta like penne or rotini will work well in this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta. Just keep an eye on cook time and add a splash more broth if needed.

Is it possible to make One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth and other sauces are gluten-free. The texture may differ slightly, but the flavors are every bit as delicious.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

You sure can! Swapping in turkey or chicken lightens things up but still delivers great flavor. Add a dash of smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce to mimic the richness of beef if you like a more robust taste.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is classic for the real cheeseburger flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. A sprinkle of American cheese can also boost nostalgia and creaminess.

Can I make this in advance for a party?

Definitely! Prepare One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta up to a day ahead, store it covered in the fridge, and reheat gently before serving. For parties, keep it warm in a slow cooker and set out all the burger-inspired toppings so everyone can customize their bowl.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is pure, cozy magic—packed with flavor, easy on cleanup, and guaranteed to satisfy both pasta lovers and burger fans alike. There’s something genuinely special about serving up all those nostalgic, cheeseburger comforts in one glorious, creamy pan. Go ahead and give it a try—your tastebuds (and your dishwashing routine) will thank you!

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