Description
Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet is a fun, one-pan meal that combines all the delicious flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting texture of pasta. Featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and is a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
12 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup beef broth (or water)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and American cheese)
½ cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
Optional toppings: Pickles, lettuce, chopped tomatoes, extra shredded cheese, or mustard
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked, and drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beef and sauce mixture.
- Add the creaminess: Stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheese, letting it melt into the mixture for a creamy, cheesy texture.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and let it melt for 2-3 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and any additional toppings you like, such as diced avocado, salsa, or jalapeños. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the skillet for extra heat.
- For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
- If you prefer more cheese, add extra mozzarella or pepper jack for a creamier, cheesier texture.
- For added crunch, serve with crispy fried onions or bacon bits as a topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg