Cheeseburger Pasta: A Crave-Worthy Family Favorite 🍝🍔✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a quick and easy dinner recipe that combines the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the convenience of pasta, then Cheeseburger Pasta is the perfect meal for your family. This delicious dish is a versatile and satisfying option that can be whipped up in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re tackling busy weeknights or looking for top-rated easy dinner ideas for the family, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Full of ground beef, flavorful cheese, and tender pasta, it’s a savory combination that everyone will love.
2. Ingredients for Cheeseburger Pasta
- 1 pound (16 oz) of pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pound of ground beef (can use recipes using 1 lb ground beef)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheeseburger Pasta
3.1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3.2. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3.3. Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3.4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors and slightly reduce the sauce.
3.5. Combine Pasta and Cheese
Mix cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and stir until melted and creamy. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
4. Variations and Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Pasta
For extra flavor, try adding bacon bits, pickles, or even a dash of mustard. Some prefer to bake the pasta with extra cheese for a baked variation. To keep the dish hearty, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Looking for related easy dinner options? Check out our Philly Cheesesteak Stew or our Smothered Chicken and Rice recipes.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Cheeseburger Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess. For best results, reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Looking for make-ahead dinner ideas? Visit our dinner category for more quick and easy family meal recipes.
6. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Cheeseburger Pasta
This hearty pasta dish is best served hot, topped with fresh parsley or extra cheese. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread. Want to add more flavor? Try a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream for an extra kick.
For more pasta recipes to inspire your dinner table, explore our pasta recipe collection.
7. FAQs About Cheeseburger Pasta
What is Cheeseburger Pasta?
Cheeseburger Pasta is a flavorful, kid-friendly dish that combines cooked pasta with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and tomato-based sauce, mimicking the taste of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient, from-scratch meal.
Can I Use Less Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute with meals with 1 lb ground beef or even plant-based proteins for a vegetarian twist while maintaining rich flavors.
Is Cheeseburger Pasta Freezer-Friendly?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat for a quick meal later. Just be mindful that cheese might change texture upon freezing, but it still tastes delicious.
8. Final Thoughts on Making Cheeseburger Pasta
As a quick and easy dinner idea, Cheeseburger Pasta hits all the right notes with its savory flavor and comforting texture. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this recipe offers a flexible and satisfying meal option that can be customized to suit your taste. By incorporating simple ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and cheese, you can create a flavorful dish in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, Cheeseburger Pasta is a dependable and delicious choice for your dinner table.
9. Conclusion
If you’re eager to explore more family-friendly **easy dinner recipes**, visit our dedicated dinner recipes section for ideas packed with flavor and convenience. This Cheeseburger Pasta recipe combines the classic taste of a cheeseburger with the comfort of pasta, making it an irresistible meal for everyone at the table. Save this recipe for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or whenever you crave a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish. Happy cooking!
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Cheeseburger Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Easy, Family-Friendly
Description
Cheeseburger Pasta is a quick, delicious, and family-friendly dinner recipe that combines savory ground beef, melted cheese, and tender pasta in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this versatile dish offers the comforting taste of a cheeseburger in an easy-to-make pasta form, ensuring a satisfying meal in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (16 oz) of pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Mix cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding bacon bits, pickles, or a dash of mustard.
- Can be baked with extra cheese for a baked variation.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
