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One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta is a quick and comforting dinner that combines seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, melted cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly dish delivers bold cheeseburger flavors with minimal fuss and easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (dry)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 1/2 cups milk or cream
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: paprika or chili flakes, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, stirring frequently to break it apart. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant, creating a savory base.
  3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, ketchup, and mustard, stirring to combine. Add the dry elbow macaroni, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
  4. Simmer Until Pasta is Tender: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Stir in Cheese and Milk: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  6. Season to Taste and Serve: Add salt, pepper, and any additional spices as desired. Stir well and serve hot for a comforting cheeseburger pasta experience.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.
  • Don’t skip the beef broth; it adds deeper flavor than water.
  • Watch the pasta closely to prevent overcooking.
  • Drain excess fat from the browned beef to keep the sauce from becoming oily.
  • Mix cheese in quickly while pasta is hot for a smooth, creamy sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, cheeseburger pasta, ground beef, cheddar cheese, quick dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, family dinner