Description
This Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet combines the savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the hearty comfort of pasta, all made in one skillet for ultimate convenience. Juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese come together with classic burger condiments like ketchup and mustard to create a quick, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a simple, family-friendly recipe that can be customized to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces macaroni noodles
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup onion, diced
- 1 pound ground sirloin
- 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Montreal Steak seasoning
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 Tablespoons mustard
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook your noodles. Drain and set aside.
While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet (12″+) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil then the diced onion. Sauté until soft.
Add the ground sirloin, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, Montreal steak seasoning, and garlic. Break apart the meat and cook until no longer pink.
Add in the ketchup, mustard, diced tomatoes, and 1.5 cups of the shredded cheese. Stir together until fully combined.
Pour in the cooked noodles and stir to combine.
Sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the top, cover with a lid, and turn heat to low. Once the cheese is melted, it’s ready to serve.
Notes
- Lean Ground Beef or Turkey:
Using lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) helps reduce excess grease and keeps the dish balanced. Ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option, while plant-based meats can be substituted for a vegetarian version. - Pasta Options:
Choose sturdy, short pasta like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne that can hold up well to the sauce. Cooking the pasta al dente is important to prevent it from becoming too soft as it continues to cook in the skillet. - Cheese Choices:
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for this recipe, but you can mix it with mozzarella or use American cheese for a creamier texture. For extra cheesiness, feel free to double the cheese or sprinkle some on top before serving. - Condiment and Spice Adjustments:
Ketchup and mustard give this dish its iconic cheeseburger flavor, but feel free to adjust the amounts to your liking. Worcestershire sauce adds depth, and spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder round out the flavor profile. Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. - Add-Ins:
This dish is very flexible. Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also mix in pickles or jalapeños for a tangy twist, or even top with a drizzle of sour cream before serving. - Skillet Choice:
A cast iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution, but a non-stick skillet works well too. Just make sure it’s large enough to hold all the ingredients and allow for stirring without spilling. - Storage and Leftovers:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and warm over medium heat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. - Customization Options:
For a healthier twist, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, reduce the cheese, or substitute ground turkey. To make it vegetarian, swap the meat with plant-based ground “beef” or add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach. - Perfect for Meal Prep:
This dish can be prepped ahead and reheated when ready to serve. The flavors develop even more over time, making it a great option for meal prepping. However, you may want to add a bit of liquid when reheating to maintain the sauce’s consistency.