Cheeseburger Pasta
A delicious fusion of classic cheeseburgers and pasta, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz 8 oz. (about 2 cups) of your favorite pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
Meat
- 1 lb 1 lb. ground beef (substitute with turkey or plant-based meat) Use turkey or plant-based for a healthier option.
Vegetables
- 1 1 onion, chopped (yellow or sweet) Use a milder onion for a subtler flavor.
- 2 cloves 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Liquids
- 1 cup 1 cup beef broth (vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Dairy
- 1 cup 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses) For a gourmet touch.
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste Season generously.
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Browning the Meat
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
Sautéing the Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
Creating the Sauce
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine, then allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Combining the Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. If the mixture seems dense, add some reserved pasta water.
Finishing Touches
- Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Spoon the cheeseburger pasta into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy warm.
Notes
For healthier alternatives, use whole wheat pasta, lean turkey, reduced-fat cheese, or add extra vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.