Easy Family-Pleasing Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

Comfort food reaches new heights with this delectable cheeseburger pasta that combines two classic favorites into one mouthwatering dish.

Creamy cheese and seasoned ground beef meld perfectly with tender pasta shells.

Each bite delivers a nostalgic explosion of familiar flavors that remind you of backyard barbecues and cozy dinner nights.

The recipe brings together simple ingredients in a surprisingly sophisticated way.

Weeknight dinners will never be the same once you try this crowd-pleasing meal.

Kids and adults alike will devour this hearty, cheesy creation from the first forkful.

Prepare to fall in love with a new dinner staple that promises pure culinary joy.

Why Cheeseburger Pasta Is Comfort Food at Its Best

• Combines the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger with creamy pasta, creating an irresistible dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Easily adapt the recipe by switching up cheese types, adding extra seasonings, or throwing in your favorite burger-inspired toppings for a personalized twist.
• Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this recipe a go-to for home cooks looking to simplify their cooking process while enjoying a restaurant-worthy meal at home.

Everything You Need for Cheeseburger Pasta

• Ground Beef: A hearty protein that brings the classic cheeseburger flavor to this pasta dish.
• Pasta: The base of the recipe that provides a comforting and satisfying texture.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a rich and creamy element to the sauce.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Delivers a sharp and tangy cheese flavor typical of cheeseburgers.
• Milk: Creates a smooth and creamy sauce consistency.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt: Enhance the overall flavor profile with classic seasonings that complement the beef and cheese.

• Black Pepper, Fresh Parsley: Optional toppings that can add extra flavor and visual appeal to the finished dish.

How to Make This Cheesy Pasta Dish

Step 1: Boil Water and Cook Pasta

Grab a large pot and fill it with water.

Sprinkle in some salt and bring the water to a rolling boil.

Drop in your favorite pasta and cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.

Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for its cheesy transformation.

Step 2: Sizzle and Brown Ground Beef

Heat up a skillet over medium flame.

Tumble in the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it into crumbly pieces.

Let the meat sizzle and dance around the pan, browning completely.

Keep stirring occasionally until no trace of pink remains.

Once cooked, drain away any extra grease.

Step 3: Melt Cheese Goodness

• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt

Stir everything together as the cheeses melt, creating a luxurious coating over the beef that’ll make your taste buds sing.

Step 4: Create Silky Sauce

Slowly pour in milk while continuously stirring.

Watch the magic happen as the melted cheese transforms into a smooth, velvety sauce.

If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit more milk until it reaches your perfect consistency.

Step 5: Unite Pasta and Sauce

Slide the cooked pasta into the skillet with the cheesy beef sauce.

Gently fold and stir until every single pasta piece is generously coated.

Take a quick taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Serve hot and dive into this comfort food masterpiece!

Easy Tips for Cheeseburger Pasta Fans

• Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain its texture and prevent mushiness when mixed with the sauce.
• Drain excess fat after browning ground beef to keep the dish lighter and prevent a greasy finish.
• Add cheese gradually and stir constantly to create a smooth, lump-free sauce that coats the beef and pasta evenly.
• Adjust milk quantity to control sauce thickness – add more for a thinner sauce or less for a more concentrated flavor.
• Experiment with additional seasonings like smoked paprika, dried herbs, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the cheeseburger-inspired taste.

Keeping Pasta Leftovers Fresh and Cheesy

• Store leftovers in a sealed container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Place pasta flat to maintain sauce consistency.
• Transfer portion to microwave-safe dish. Add splash of milk to restore creaminess. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each cycle. Stir thoroughly to distribute heat evenly.
• Warm pasta in skillet over medium-low heat. Add small amount of milk or water to prevent sticking. Stir constantly to prevent burning and maintain sauce texture. Heat until steaming hot throughout.
• Freeze in freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating. Avoid refreezing to maintain best quality and food safety.

Favorite Sides with Cheeseburger Pasta

• Burger Beer Pairing: Crack open a cold amber ale or lager that complements the rich, meaty flavors of the cheeseburger pasta. Its crisp carbonation cuts through the creamy cheese sauce, creating a perfect balance between the hearty dish and refreshing drink.
• Herb-Infused Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top to add a bright, zesty layer that lifts the heavy cheese and beef combination. These green herbs provide a fresh contrast and make the dish look more vibrant and appetizing.
• Wine Companion: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Merlot that matches the robust beef and cheese profile. The wine's fruity undertones and smooth texture enhance the pasta's rich, comforting flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Crispy Side Salad: Prepare a light green salad with mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the pasta's richness. The salad's crisp texture and acidic dressing will cleanse the palate between bites of the creamy cheeseburger pasta.

Cheeseburger Pasta Twists You Should Try

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Base: Replace traditional pasta with riced cauliflower, creating a keto-friendly version that maintains the rich, meaty flavor while reducing carbohydrate content.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this hearty meal without compromising taste.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, providing a protein-packed alternative that delivers similar texture and savory notes for meat-free diners.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or cashew-based cheese, and replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk to accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Yes, you can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper to give the pasta a spicy kick that mimics a zesty cheeseburger flavor.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids typically love the cheesy, meaty combination, and the simple ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser for picky eaters. The creamy sauce and familiar flavors are perfect for children.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can partially prepare this recipe by cooking the beef and making the sauce in advance. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and mix in freshly cooked pasta to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

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4.9 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Cheeseburger pasta brings classic American comfort to your dinner table with a delightful twist. Juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and perfectly seasoned pasta combine for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal you can’t resist.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) lean ground beef
• 16 ounces (454 grams) pasta
• 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese
• 8 ounces (227 grams) sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta in a large pot of salted water, boiling until perfectly tender yet firm. Drain and reserve for later assembly.
2. Heat skillet over medium temperature, introducing ground beef. Methodically break down meat while cooking, ensuring complete browning and elimination of any pink undertones. Eliminate excess fat after cooking.
3. Reduce skillet heat to low, introducing cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Gently stir until cheeses transform into a luxurious, smooth coating enveloping the beef.
4. Gradually introduce milk into the cheese mixture, whisking continuously to create a velvety sauce. Adjust liquid volume to achieve desired sauce consistency, ensuring a silky texture.
5. Integrate cooked pasta into the skillet, thoroughly coating each pasta strand with the rich, savory cheese sauce. Taste and refine seasoning as necessary. Serve immediately while maintaining optimal temperature and creamy texture.

Notes

• Always select lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the dish lighter.
• Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist that adds more nutritional value without compromising taste.
• Consider adding diced onions or bell peppers during beef browning to boost vegetable intake and provide additional texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 680
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 100mg