Hey there! If you’re looking for a meal that’s not only quick and easy but also unbelievably comforting, you’ve got to try my cheeseburger pasta skillet. Seriously, it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I whip it up whenever my week gets chaotic, and it never fails to bring a smile to my family’s faces. The combination of cheesy goodness, savory beef, and tender pasta is just irresistible! Plus, it’s all made in one skillet—so less cleanup, more time to enjoy! Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to dinner on busy nights, too. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious cheeseburger pasta skillet. I promise, it’s all super straightforward! Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start—trust me, it saves time!

8 oz elbow macaroni: This is the pasta that really holds onto all that cheesy goodness. You can use any small pasta shape you love, but I find elbow macaroni is just perfect!
1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef works best, but you can use turkey or even plant-based meat if you’re looking for a lighter option!
1 small onion, chopped: Just a bit of onion adds a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings that aromatic goodness that makes the whole dish sing.
1 cup beef broth: This is the secret to a flavorful sauce! You can use chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand.
1 cup diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes give a nice acidity and texture. Feel free to use fresh tomatoes if you have them!
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar is my favorite for that classic cheeseburger flavor, but don’t hesitate to mix it up with your preferred cheese!
1 tbsp ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and that classic burger flavor.
1 tbsp mustard: A little tang goes a long way! I use yellow mustard, but Dijon works too if you want something fancier.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking! I like a good sprinkle of both, but you do you!

How to Prepare the Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making this cheeseburger pasta skillet! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

First, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to drain it and set it aside once it’s nice and tender!
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together with the beef until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly!
Now, it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, ketchup, and mustard. Bring this delightful mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all those flavors meld beautifully.
After that, add the cooked macaroni back into the skillet and mix everything together until well combined. It’s starting to look delicious, right?
Finally, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and voilà! You’ve got a comforting, cheesy meal ready to serve!

Serve this hot, and get ready for some happy faces around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet

Quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
One skillet means easy cleanup; less mess for you!
Packed with flavor, bringing that classic cheeseburger taste to your pasta.
Family-friendly and perfect for picky eaters—everyone loves it!
Great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings; it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Tips for Success with Your Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet

Here are a few tips to ensure your cheeseburger pasta skillet turns out perfectly every time! First, don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds so much flavor to the dish. If you want to add a bit of crunch, toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms while sautéing. For a twist, try using a different cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick! And if you love a bit of extra sauce, just add a splash more beef broth or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Lastly, remember to taste as you go—seasoning is key!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates. For each serving of this delicious cheeseburger pasta skillet, you can expect approximately:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sodium: 800mg
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg

These values are meant to give you a general idea of what you’re enjoying. Remember, if you want to make it lighter, consider using leaner meats or low-fat cheese options!

FAQ Section

Got questions about the cheeseburger pasta skillet? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries you might have:

Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully, and for a vegetarian option, try plant-based crumbles or lentils.

How do I store leftovers? Just place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I add vegetables? Yes! Feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach while cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

What if I don’t have beef broth? No worries! Chicken broth or even vegetable broth will work just as well, keeping the dish flavorful!

Is this dish freezer-friendly? It is! Just let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions for Your Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet

Now that you’ve got this delightful cheeseburger pasta skillet ready to go, let’s think about what to serve alongside it! A fresh garden salad is always a fantastic choice—it adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the pasta. You can whip up a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. If you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, some warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are perfect for scooping up all that cheesy goodness! And don’t forget to pair it with your favorite beverage; a nice cold soda or iced tea really hits the spot!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftovers from the cheeseburger pasta skillet is super easy! Just let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it nice and creamy. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to avoid splatters. Stir occasionally until heated through, and it’ll taste just as delicious as the first time! Enjoy!

Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet: 7 Comforting Flavors to Relish

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

A quick and easy cheeseburger pasta skillet recipe packed with flavor.

Instructions

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes, ketchup, and mustard.
Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add cooked macaroni and mix well.
Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot.

Notes

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Use a different cheese for varied flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: cheeseburger pasta skillet, easy dinner, one skillet meal

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