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One Pot Cheeseburger Pasta

An easy yet indulgent dish that brings the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a delightful pasta form, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb lean ground beef Provides a hearty, juicy base that is full of flavor.
  • 1 small onion (finely diced) Adds sweetness and aroma, complementing the beef.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Gives a rich, tangy depth to the dish.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) Infuses the recipe with a warm, comforting aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard Adds a zesty kick that brightens the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances and balances the overall taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper Provides a gentle warmth and character to the dish.
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika Adds a smoky hue and subtle flavor enhancement.
  • 3 cups low sodium beef broth Keeps the pasta moistened and flavorful.
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup Brings a hint of sweetness and tanginess reminiscent of your favorite burger sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons sweet relish Contributes a delightful crunch and sweetness.
  • ½ cup heavy cream Ensures the pasta is luscious and creamy.
  • 3 cups pasta shells (about 210 grams) Perfectly holds onto the sauce for tender bites.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Melts beautifully, creating gooey cheesiness in every forkful.
  • Sliced pickles (optional, for serving) Add a refreshing crunch for an authentic cheeseburger experience.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. If your skillet isn’t non-stick, drizzle a little oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onion has softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste, minced garlic, ground mustard, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the beef broth, ketchup, relish, and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over high heat.
  5. Add the uncooked pasta shells to the skillet, stirring to ensure they’re submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low.
  6. Let the pasta simmer, stirring often, until it reaches al dente texture, typically around 10-12 minutes.
  7. Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the creamy sauce. Give it a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Once the cheese is melted, your One Pot Cheeseburger Pasta is ready to be served. If desired, garnish with sliced pickles for added crunch and flavor.

Notes

For a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as Italian seasoning or garlic powder, for more flavor. For a low-carb version, substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower.