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One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta

One Pot Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta

A quick and comforting one pot meal that combines cheesy goodness with hearty ground beef and tender pasta, perfect for a family dinner or any time you want a fuss-free, delicious, and creamy cheeseburger-inspired pasta dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins and Pasta

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni

Dairy and Liquids

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup beef broth

Seasonings and Condiments

  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp mustard

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally for even cooking. Drain any excess fat thoroughly to keep the dish from being greasy.
  2. Add Seasonings and Liquids: To the cooked beef, stir in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then add the beef broth, milk, ketchup, and mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer to build the sauce base.
  3. Stir in the Pasta: Add the dry elbow macaroni directly to the pot. Stir everything together, cover with a lid, and let the pasta cook in the liquid for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  4. Incorporate the Cheese: Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and creamy, creating the perfect cheesy sauce.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Give the pasta one final stir, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal everyone will love.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best melt and cheese flavor.
  • Drain excess fat from the beef to prevent a greasy sauce.
  • Stir frequently while pasta cooks to avoid sticking.
  • Lower heat when adding cheese to maintain a creamy texture and avoid curdling.
  • Adjust cheese amount to make the dish as rich as you like.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy pasta, cheeseburger pasta, one pot meal, quick dinner, family-friendly, comfort food, ground beef pasta