One-Pot Cheesy Burger Pasta: Easy Comfort Food Recipe

Ever had one of those days when you’re craving a juicy cheeseburger but also want the cozy comfort of pasta? Why choose when you can have both! As a busy parent who’s always looking for quick dinner solutions, I stumbled upon this game-changing recipe that combines two family favorites into one delicious meal. This One-Pot Cheesy Burger Pasta has become our go-to weeknight dinner – it’s simple, satisfying, and requires minimal cleanup (which is always a win in my book!).

What Makes This Cheesy Burger Pasta Special?

There’s something magical about transforming classic cheeseburger flavors into a hearty pasta dish. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and tender pasta creates a comfort food masterpiece that even the pickiest eaters in your family will devour.

What I love most about this recipe is that everything cooks in a single pot. On hectic weeknights when the last thing I want to think about is washing a sink full of dishes, this recipe comes to the rescue. The pasta cooks right in the same pot with all the other ingredients, absorbing all those amazing flavors while creating a creamy, dreamy sauce.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleaser:

• 1 pound ground beef (I use 85/15 for a good balance of flavor and leanness)
• 1 small onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth (can substitute chicken broth in a pinch)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (I prefer a sharp cheddar for more flavor)
• Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, sliced green onions, or extra cheese

Possible Substitutions:

• Ground beef alternatives: Ground turkey or plant-based meat crumbles work great for a lighter option!
• Pasta shapes: Any short pasta works well – try rotini, shells, or bow ties for a fun twist.
• Cheese options: While cheddar gives that classic cheeseburger flavor, a mix of cheddar and monterey jack creates an extra creamy texture.
• Veggie additions: Diced bell peppers or mushrooms can be sautéed with the onions for extra nutrition.

How to Make One-Pot Cheesy Burger Pasta

This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes from start to finish – perfect for those busy weeknights when everyone is starving and patience is running thin!

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, drain it off, leaving just a little for flavor. Remember when browning meat, resist the urge to constantly stir – letting it sit creates those delicious browned bits that add so much flavor!

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Have you ever noticed how the kitchen suddenly smells amazing the moment garlic hits the pan? That’s when you know good things are happening!

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about a minute to toast the spices and caramelize the tomato paste slightly. This quick step adds surprising depth to the final dish.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, ketchup, and mustard, giving everything a good stir to combine. Add the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot.

Step 5: Let it Simmer

Allow the pasta to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed – about 10-12 minutes. The pasta will cook right in all that flavorful sauce, becoming infused with all the cheesy burger goodness.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. I like to add the cheese in batches, stirring between additions for the smoothest texture.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the pasta rest for about 5 minutes – it will continue to thicken as it sits. Then sprinkle with your chosen garnishes and serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Burger Pasta

After making this dish countless times (my kids request it weekly!), I’ve picked up a few tricks:

• Don’t overcook the pasta. Check it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time – it should be just tender. It will continue cooking slightly as it rests.
• Freshly grated cheese melts much better than pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
• For extra burger flavor, try adding a tablespoon of pickle relish or some chopped dill pickles right before serving.
• Make it a complete meal by serving with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this One-Pot Cheesy Burger Pasta such a winner? It combines the flavor profile everyone loves in a cheeseburger with the comfort and convenience of a pasta dish. Plus, it’s:

• Quick and easy – ready in 30 minutes
• Made in just one pot for easy cleanup
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved
• Easily customizable with your favorite burger toppings
• Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings

In our house, this dish has achieved legendary status. My 8-year-old, who usually pushes pasta around his plate, devours this with enthusiasm. My husband, who typically reaches for seconds of any meal, goes for thirds with this one!

Have you tried combining other beloved dishes into one-pot wonders? I’d love to hear your creative kitchen mashups! Until then, I hope this Cheesy Burger Pasta brings as much joy to your dinner table as it does to ours.