If you have a craving that calls for something hearty, cheesy, and bursting with that beloved cheeseburger flavor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet. It’s the ultimate comfort dish that combines tender elbow macaroni with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and just the right tang from ketchup and mustard—all cooked together in one fantastic skillet. Every bite tastes like your favorite cheeseburger in pasta form, making it the perfect, satisfying meal for any night of the week when you want something quick, delicious, and utterly irresistible.

Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a beautiful reminder that sometimes simplicity is the secret weapon in the kitchen. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that make the Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet a total winner.

Elbow macaroni (8 ounces): The perfect pasta shape to soak up all the cheeseburger goodness and hold onto every bit of sauce.

Ground beef (1 pound): Provides that savory, meaty foundation essential to any cheeseburger-inspired dish.
Small onion, diced (1): Adds sweetness and depth when softened, balancing the rich flavors.

Garlic cloves, minced (2): Brings a subtle aromatic punch that elevates the entire skillet.
Beef broth (1 cup): Enhances the beefy flavor and keeps the pasta moist and tender.

Milk (1 cup): Joins in to create a creamy, dreamy sauce that binds everything together.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Gives sharp, melty cheesiness that’s an absolute must.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds gooey stretch and mild richness for the perfect cheese blend.

Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Provides tangy-sweet brightness for that classic cheeseburger twist.
Mustard (2 tablespoons): Offers a gentle zing that balances the flavors beautifully.
Salt and pepper (to taste): The essentials that bring everything into harmonious flavor balance.

Optional toppings: Pickles, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese to customize and brighten your skillet masterpiece.

How to Make Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Browning the Ground Beef

Start by heating your skillet to medium and cooking the ground beef until nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is key because browning builds flavor with those caramelized bits that give the dish its crave-worthy taste. Drain any excess fat to keep things from getting greasy.

Step 2: Adding Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the diced onion and cook just until it’s softened and translucent. This softens the sharpness of the onion and lends a subtle sweetness. Right after, stir in your minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its irresistible aroma—this little burst of flavor makes a huge difference!

Step 3: Cooking the Pasta

If you didn’t do it ahead, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Al dente is the way to go since the pasta will finish cooking with the sauce and soak up those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Combining Liquids and Pasta

To your skillet with the beef and aromatics, pour in the beef broth and milk for a creamy, flavorful base. Add ketchup and mustard next—they are the secret ingredients providing that unmistakable cheeseburger tang. Finally, stir in your cooked elbow macaroni until everything is combined and looking wonderfully saucy.

Step 5: Simmering to Perfection

Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps the pasta absorb all the savory, cheesy flavors, making sure no bite is left bland or dry.

Step 6: Melting the Cheese

Sprinkle in your shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until melted and lusciously creamy. This cheesy mix ties the whole dish together, creating that luscious texture we all crave in a cheeseburger pasta skillet.

Step 7: Season and Rest

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat. Let the skillet sit for a few minutes to thicken up and let all those flavors meld together before serving.

Step 8: Serving with Toppings

Serve the Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet straight from the pan and feel free to add optional toppings like pickles, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese. These toppings add bursts of freshness and crunch that perfectly complement the creamy, rich pasta base.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet

Garnishes

While the dish is delicious on its own, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions can add a pop of color and fresh flavor. Pickles on top bring a tangy bite reminiscent of your classic cheeseburger experience.

Side Dishes

Since this skillet is quite filling, pair it with lighter sides like a crisp green salad or roasted veggies. A side of steamed broccoli or a bright tomato cucumber salad can balance the richness and brighten the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party twist, you can serve the Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet in individual ramekins or mini skillets for personal servings. Or sprinkle with crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra flavor explosion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir when you reheat to reunite the flavors and cheeses.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prep it in advance. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. If it seems dry, splash in a little milk or broth to revive that creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for the Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic here, shapes like rotini, shells, or penne work wonderfully, as they hold the sauce well and offer a satisfying bite.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep that umami flavor while making it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Of course. Pre-shredded cheeses save time and still melt nicely, but freshly shredded cheese tends to melt smoother and can improve the dish’s texture slightly.

How spicy is the Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet?

This dish is mild and family-friendly, but you can easily add a little chili powder or hot sauce to the beef mixture if you love an extra kick of heat.

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Definitely! The Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet scales up nicely. Just be sure to use a larger skillet or pan to cook evenly, and adjust seasoning as you go for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and joyful about the Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet that makes it an instant favorite in any kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a cozy solo meal, this dish delivers an explosion of flavor with minimal fuss. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and add your own personal flair—get ready for your new go-to dinner that’s every bit as satisfying as its namesake burger!

Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 27 reviews

Author: Noah

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with hearty elbow macaroni in a creamy, cheesy skillet meal perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Pasta: While preparing the meat mixture, cook the elbow macaroni in a separate pot according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Add Liquids and Pasta: To the skillet, add the beef broth, milk, ketchup, mustard, and the cooked elbow macaroni. Stir everything together until well combined.
Simmer the Mixture: Bring the skillet mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.

Incorporate Cheese and Season: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and fully blended. Season the dish with salt and pepper to your taste.
Let It Thicken: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly for a creamy consistency.
Serve with Toppings: Serve the cheeseburger pasta skillet hot, optionally topping it with pickles, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese for added flavor and texture.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use whole milk or add a splash of cream.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Make sure to drain excess fat from ground beef to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Cook the pasta slightly less than package instructions if you prefer a firmer bite, as it will cook a bit more when simmered with the sauce.
Optional toppings like pickles add a tangy contrast that complements the cheesy flavors well.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet Cooking

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of the recipe)
Calories: 540 kcal

Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 22 g

Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g

Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 30 g

Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: cheeseburger pasta, skillet dinner, cheesy pasta, ground beef recipe, quick dinner