If you’re craving the perfect cozy meal that brings the irresistible flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, creamy pasta dish, you have to try this Loaded Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe. It’s the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy ground beef, melted cheddar and mozzarella, tangy pickles, and savory seasonings all in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want a fuss-free dinner with big flavor, this recipe is a guaranteed winner that delivers cheesy, satisfying goodness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that pack a big punch when combined. Each one adds to the rich, layered flavor and comforting texture that make this dish truly special.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the beef perfectly.
- Ground beef: The hearty base and star protein of the dish.
- Onion: Brings a sweet, aromatic depth to balance the savory beef.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the pasta with classic savory warmth.
- Tomato paste: Adds a concentrated, tangy tomato flavor for richness.
- Yellow mustard: Gives that signature cheeseburger tang and a hint of zest.
- Worcestershire sauce: A secret umami booster that elevates every bite.
- Smoked paprika: Offers a subtle smokiness that complements the burger vibe.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors into balance.
- Beef broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the pasta.
- Pasta shells or elbow macaroni: Perfect shapes to hold that creamy sauce.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy bliss.
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds extra creaminess and stretch.
- Sour cream: Introduces tang and velvety smoothness.
- Pickles (optional): A crunchy, tangy surprise that mimics a classic burger topping.
- Chopped green onions or parsley: Fresh garnish to brighten the rich dish.
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the beef and cook aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, making sure to break it apart with a spoon for even cooking. Once the beef is nicely browned, drain any excess grease if you want a leaner dish. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring and cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This step builds the savory, hearty base we want for every bite.
Step 2: Add flavor boosters
Mix in the tomato paste, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. These ingredients bring the familiar tangy and smoky notes that make this pasta taste like a cheeseburger in disguise. Stir everything well so all those delicious flavors blend together beautifully with the beef and aromatics.
Step 3: Cook the pasta in beef broth
Pour in the beef broth and add your uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni. Give it a good stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook gently for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the broth’s deep flavors while becoming tender and perfect.
Step 4: Stir in cheeses and sour cream
When the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly evaporated, it’s time to add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and sour cream. Stir everything until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce turns creamy and luscious. This is the cheesy magic that makes the dish delightfully indulgent and close to that classic cheeseburger experience in pasta form.
Step 5: Add pickles and garnish
If you love that pickle crunch, stir in chopped pickles right at the end for a tangy contrast, but this is optional depending on your taste. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped green onions or parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh note that balances out the richness.
How to Serve Loaded Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect presentation, sprinkle a handful of chopped green onions, parsley, or even crispy bacon bits. These toppings add texture and fresh flavors that elevate the dish even more. A little drizzle of your favorite burger sauce on top can also add a fun twist sure to impress family or friends.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables so your meal stays balanced and satisfying. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce left on your plate. If you want to add crunch, classic French fries or sweet potato fries make a fun nod to the cheeseburger roots.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta in rustic bowls topped with all your garnishes for a casual vibe ideal for family dinners. For a crowd, bake it in a casserole dish with extra shredded cheese on top until bubbly and golden. You can even portion it into mason jars for fun packed lunches or meal prep that keeps your Midweek dinners exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Loaded Cheeseburger Pasta stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the creamy texture and robust flavor so it’s just as delicious reheated.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well too. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of beef broth or milk to help restore creaminess. Microwave works fine as well; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to make sure it warms evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works perfectly in the Loaded Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it may brown a bit faster.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are the stars here — cheddar for sharpness and mozzarella for meltiness. Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses if you want, but these give the best classic cheeseburger flavor.
Is it necessary to add pickles?
Pickles are optional but highly recommended if you want that authentic cheeseburger tang and crunch. You can always leave them out or serve them on the side if you prefer.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add a kick, try stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes with the spices or topping the finished dish with jalapeño slices. It complements the smoky paprika nicely.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and double-check that your beef broth and other condiments are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Loaded Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe is truly one of those feel-good meals that bring warmth and smiles with every forkful. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. I can’t recommend it enough for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty but easy to pull together. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with this cheesy, meaty, irresistible pasta!
Print
Loaded Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Loaded Cheeseburger Pasta is a comforting one-pot meal that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with creamy pasta. Ground beef is browned and cooked with onions, garlic, and savory seasonings, then simmered with pasta and beef broth until tender. Melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, along with sour cream, add rich creaminess, while optional pickles and fresh herbs bring an authentic cheeseburger touch. This quick stovetop recipe is perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Pantry and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups uncooked pasta shells or elbow macaroni
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed to avoid a greasy dish.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer pasta: Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked pasta. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add cheeses and sour cream: Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and sour cream. Continue stirring until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Finish and garnish: If using, stir in chopped pickles for that classic cheeseburger tang. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, top with crispy bacon bits or a drizzle of burger sauce.
- Ground turkey can be substituted for a lighter, leaner option.
- This dish reheats well, making it great for leftovers and meal prep.
