Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger without the fuss with our irresistible recipe for One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta. This easy-to-make dish combines all the savory goodness of ground beef, onions, and cheese with the convenience of a one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this hearty pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the delicious world of cheeseburger pasta and discover how simplicity can be truly satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cans beef broth (14.5 ounces each – low sodium)
- 1 cup water
- 1 pound box rotini pasta or fusilli pasta
- 3 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% milk)
- Salt & pepper to taste (if desired)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lean ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula.
- Add Aromatics: Add diced yellow onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked ground beef. Cook for a few minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Season and Sauce: Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed and the beef mixture is coated with the flavors.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and water, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Pasta: Once the liquid is boiling, add the rotini pasta or fusilli pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cheesy Finish: Reduce the heat to low and stir in shredded mild cheddar cheese and milk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve the One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to create unique flavor profiles. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese can add a delicious twist to this recipe.
- Add Veggie Boost: Sneak in some extra veggies by adding diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped spinach to the pasta during cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy twist on classic cheeseburger flavors.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Use full-fat cheese and cream instead of milk to keep the dish keto-compliant.
- Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the carb content by using a low-carb pasta alternative or reducing the amount of pasta used in the recipe. Opt for a sugar-free ketchup and Worcestershire sauce to further reduce the carb count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can easily substitute lean ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Q: Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth? A: While beef broth adds richness to the dish, you can use chicken broth as a substitute if preferred. It will impart a milder flavor but will still result in a tasty pasta dish.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time and reheat it? A: Yes, this One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta reheats well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Q: Can I add bacon to this recipe? A: Absolutely! Crispy bacon bits would be a delicious addition to this cheeseburger pasta. Cook the bacon separately until crispy, then crumble it over the finished dish before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover cheeseburger pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
In conclusion, One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is a testament to the magic of simplicity in cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and a single pot, you can create a hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re short on time or craving a taste of nostalgic comfort, this easy-to-make pasta dish is the perfect solution. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy the satisfying flavors of cheeseburger pasta in just one pot!
