Name: Easy Cheeseburger Pasta (One Pan) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow or shells); 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tsp mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 25 reviews

If you are searching for a comforting, satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a fun and easy pasta form, then this Easy Cheeseburger Pasta (One Pan) Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines juicy ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and a tangy ketchup-mustard sauce with tender pasta, all cooked in one pan to keep things simple and cleanup quick. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the fuss, this recipe never fails to deliver that nostalgic cheeseburger taste in a cozy, cheesy pasta bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black cast iron skillet filled with raw ground meat that is pink and finely crumbly, with a layer of finely chopped white onions scattered on top in the center. Around the skillet, small white bowls are partially visible containing colorful ingredients like shredded yellow cheese, chopped red tomatoes, and herbs. The skillet is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward and essential for creating that perfect cheeseburger pasta. Each component adds a layer of flavor and texture that makes this dish irresistible, from the savory ground beef and aromatic onions to the creamy cheddar cheese that melts beautifully into the sauce.

1 lb ground beef: The heart of the dish, providing rich, meaty flavor and juiciness.
1 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the beef and onions beautifully without sticking.
1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch that balances the richness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic punch.
2 cups uncooked pasta: Elbow or shells work great to hold the sauce perfectly.
2 cups beef broth: Adds depth and savory essence to cook the pasta right in the pan.
1 cup milk: Creates a creamy texture that keeps the sauce luscious and smooth.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp, melty cheese that ties everything together.
2 tbsp ketchup: Brings that iconic tangy-sweet cheeseburger sauce flavor.
1 tsp mustard: Adds a bit of zest and complexity to the sauce.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Pasta (One Pan) Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook them together until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn translucent. This step develops the rich, savory foundation that is crucial for that classic cheeseburger flavor in the pasta.

Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter. This quick step deepens the flavor profile and makes the whole dish more inviting.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Liquids

Now, add the uncooked pasta directly to the skillet along with the beef broth, milk, ketchup, and mustard. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. This is where the magic happens — the pasta will cook right in this flavorful mixture, soaking up all the juices and seasoning.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly without sticking while the liquids reduce into a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Once the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened to a creamy consistency, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating that deliciously gooey, cheesy texture you expect from a great cheeseburger experience.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything one last stir, then serve your Easy Cheeseburger Pasta (One Pan) Recipe hot and ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Pasta (One Pan) Recipe

This image shows a close-up of a large pan filled with creamy orange pasta shells mixed with small pieces of brown meat. The pasta is covered in sauce giving it a smooth shiny look. Scattered on top are bright green chopped spring onions adding a fresh contrast. A gray spoon with a wooden handle is scooping some pasta from the right side of the pan. The pan sits on a white marbled surface next to a white cloth with black stripes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra burst of flavor and texture, sprinkle chopped pickles, crispy bacon bits, or a little chopped fresh parsley on top. These add a delightful crunch and enhance the cheeseburger vibe beautifully.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies to balance the richness of the pasta. Classic sides like sweet potato fries or even a garlic breadstick also make great companions to complete your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets or colorful bowls for a fun twist. You can also turn it into a casserole by layering it with extra cheese and baking it for 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top—an impressive way to elevate the one-pan classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making leftovers just as tasty as the fresh batch.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, too. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as it warms up. Alternatively, the microwave works well if you cover the dish to keep the moisture in.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives the classic cheeseburger taste, you can try American cheese for extra creaminess or a sharp white cheddar for a bolder bite. Just make sure it melts well.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can swap out the ground beef for a plant-based crumble or sautéed mushrooms to keep it hearty and satisfying while making it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Definitely. Just be mindful of the cooking times as whole wheat or gluten-free pasta may cook differently. Adjust the simmering time accordingly and watch your pasta closely.

How spicy is the Easy Cheeseburger Pasta (One Pan) Recipe?

This recipe is mild and kid-friendly. If you want to add a little kick, try seasoning with a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for a busy day?

Yes, you can partially prepare this dish by cooking the beef and onion mixture ahead of time, then refrigerate it. When ready, combine with the liquids and pasta to finish cooking. This makes dinner even quicker.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta (One Pan) Recipe is a true weeknight hero—quick, easy, and irresistibly tasty. I encourage you to give it a try and experience that nostalgic cheeseburger flavor without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Once you make it, you’ll want to come back to it again and again for a simple, satisfying meal that everyone will love.