One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

This one-pot cheeseburger pasta skillet transforms America's favorite fast food into a comforting family dinner that comes together in one pan. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese creates all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a hearty pasta dish that both kids and adults will devour.

I created this recipe on a busy weeknight when my family was craving cheeseburgers but I needed something quicker and less fussy. It has since become our go-to meal when we want something comforting that doesn't require multiple pots and pans.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 95% lean provides the perfect foundation without excess grease
• Garlic powder: Adds depth without the prep work of fresh garlic
• Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky flavor that mimics the grilled taste of a burger
• Chicken broth: Forms the cooking liquid for the pasta while adding more flavor than water
• Fire roasted diced tomatoes: Contribute a slight smokiness and acidity
• Elbow macaroni: Cooks perfectly in the sauce becoming tender in about 15 minutes
• Low-fat cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully while keeping the dish lighter
• Scallions: Add a fresh burst of color and mild onion flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the cooking surface:

Spray a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup. Heat the skillet over medium high heat until hot but not smoking.

Brown the beef:

Add the ground beef to the hot skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until no pink remains. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Smaller pieces distribute better throughout the finished dish.

Season the meat:

Sprinkle the garlic powder and smoked paprika over the browned beef and stir well to evenly coat each piece. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to bloom the spices and release their aromatic oils. This quick toast enhances their flavors significantly.

Create the pasta base:

Add the chicken broth, fire roasted tomatoes with their juices, uncooked macaroni, and salt to the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Cook until tender:

Maintain a steady simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta will absorb the flavorful liquid while releasing starches that thicken the sauce. The dish is ready when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed or thickened.

Finish with cheese:

Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce creating a creamy texture throughout the dish.

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The fire roasted tomatoes are truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. Unlike regular diced tomatoes they add a subtle smoky depth that reminds me of summer cookouts. My daughter who normally picks tomatoes out of everything actually requests extra in this dish which counts as a major parenting win in my book.

Storing Leftovers

This cheeseburger pasta reheats beautifully making it perfect for meal prep. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid while stored. A minute in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top will restore the creamy texture without drying out the pasta.

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Customize Your Skillet

Think of this recipe as a canvas for creating your own signature dish. Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef for extra vegetables. Stir in a tablespoon of yellow mustard and a few dill pickle relish for an authentic cheeseburger flavor profile. For a spicy version incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also swap the cheddar for pepper jack or even blue cheese to create entirely different flavor profiles while keeping the same comforting base.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty pasta directly from the skillet for a casual family style dinner. Top individual portions with traditional burger toppings like diced tomatoes shredded lettuce or even crumbled bacon for an over the top treat. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich pasta. For a fun presentation set out small bowls of burger toppings and let everyone customize their own serving just as they would a burger.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes, like penne or rotini. Make sure to adjust cooking time as needed to achieve tender pasta.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this meal ahead of time. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this dish. You may need to add a touch of oil during browning as turkey is leaner.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat. Also, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

Yes, you can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the smoked paprika. For extra heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or chili powder.