One Pot Cheeseburger Pasta: Comfort Food Made Easy
A simple one-pot pasta dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger. Perfect for beginner cooks, this recipe is quick, easy, and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering, One Pot Cooking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Pickles, for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Browning the beef adds flavor. Be sure to drain the fat to avoid a greasy dish. Use a large pot. Use a spoon. Use a stove top. Beginner Note: Use a spatula to break up the meat.
- Add Pasta and Broth: Add the elbow macaroni and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Stirring prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Use a large pot. Use a spoon. Beginner Note: Ensure the broth covers the pasta completely.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally. Check the pasta for doneness by tasting it. It should be tender but still slightly firm. Use a large pot. Use a lid. Use a timer. Beginner Note: Stir every 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cream, Cheese, Ketchup, and Mustard: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, ketchup, and mustard. Warm through on low heat, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Stirring prevents the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. Use a large pot. Use a spoon. Beginner Note: Add the cream and cheese slowly.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with pickles. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture. Use a serving plate. Use a knife. Beginner Note: Garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of paprika.
Notes
- Drain fat from beef.
- Don’t overcook pasta.
- Use room-temperature cream.
- Stir often to prevent sticking.