Save This loaded cheeseburger pasta skillet brings together all the best parts of a cheeseburger in one irresistible and easy dinner. We are talking hearty ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, tangy pickles, and a savory, creamy sauce all mingling with tender pasta. It is a weeknight favorite when you want that satisfying comfort of a burger without firing up the grill.
I first made this on a busy school night when we were craving takeout burgers but wanted to use up leftovers. Now my family requests it almost as much as Wednesday pizza nights.
Ingredients
- Pasta shells or elbow macaroni: The ridges pick up all the creamy sauce Choose a sturdy pasta shape to hold up in the skillet
- Ground beef: Pick one with a bit of fat for extra flavor or go lean for a lighter version
- Onion: Diced small for a sweet and savory background
- Salt and black pepper: Use freshly cracked pepper for the most robust flavor
- Ketchup: For sharp sweetness and classic burger taste Opt for real tomato ketchup not the sweetened versions
- Yellow mustard: A true burger note that brings zest and tang
- Milk: Brings silkiness to the sauce Whole milk makes it richer use low-fat if that is what you have
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or medium cheddar melts into the creamiest topping Look for block cheese to shred yourself for the best melt
- Cream cheese: Makes the sauce extra smooth and decadent A few cubes go a long way
- Dill pickles: For crunch and zing Freshly chopped from a jar or refrigerated section for vibrant flavor
- Extra cheddar: For topping Because more cheese is always welcome
- Sesame seeds: For garnish and classic burger taste Toast lightly for extra aroma
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil your pasta in salted water until it is just shy of fully cooked or al dente so it holds up in the sauce Drain and set aside but do not rinse because you want the starch to help the sauce cling
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large deep skillet heat your oil over medium heat Add diced onion and cook slowly until they start to turn golden and soften This takes about five to seven minutes Next add your ground beef and break it into small pieces as it cooks Continue stirring until all the pink is gone and the meat is caramelized at the edges Season with salt and black pepper for extra flavor
- Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat a bit then add ketchup and yellow mustard to coat all the beef and onions Pour in the milk and swirl gently letting the flavors combine Add the cream cheese in small pieces and half the shredded cheddar Stir slowly as everything melts into a thick creamy sauce The texture should be silky without lumps
- Combine Pasta and Beef:
- Tip your cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture Use a spatula to toss and make sure all the pasta is coated Layer on the remaining cheddar over the top and cover the skillet for one to two minutes The cheese will melt and form a bubbling cap over the pasta
- Serve:
- Uncover and top with the chopped dill pickles for crunch Sprinkle extra cheddar and toasted sesame seeds if you like Scoop into bowls and serve piping hot for the best cheeseburger experience
Save I always add extra pickles on mine and my kids love to scoop the cheesy pasta with a slice of lettuce like a mini burger taco If you swap the pasta for macaroni it reminds me of diner-style cheeseburger mac that my mom made on cold days
Storage Tips
Let the skillet cool to room temperature then spoon leftovers into airtight containers The pasta stays good in the fridge for up to three days For best results reheat on the stove or in thirty second bursts in the microwave adding a splash of milk if it thickens up
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or ground chicken both taste delicious here with slightly lighter flavor Plant-based crumbles make it vegetarian-friendly Use a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack in place of cheddar for a milder cheese pull If you do not eat dairy try vegan cream cheese and a plant-based milk with dairy-free cheddar shred
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad tossed with extra pickles and tomato slices Garlic bread or a simple bag of potato chips brings home that diner vibe Sometimes I spoon the mixture into baked potato halves for a fun twist
Cultural and Historical Context
Cheeseburger pasta borrows from classic American comfort food traditions bringing together the timeless flavors of burgers and macaroni into one cozy dish This recipe is perfect for family-style eating or to bring back childhood memories of eating cheeseburgers at the local diner
Save Let the flavors mingle for a few minutes before serving to make the sauce even creamier. Scoop into bowls and enjoy every bite of this classic comfort meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best?
Small shapes like shells or elbow macaroni coat well with cheese and beef, creating a satisfying bite.
- → Can I substitute the beef?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based alternatives hold up well and absorb the cheesy sauce flavors nicely.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead?
Prepare and assemble the skillet ahead, then reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy before serving.
- → How do I achieve the 'cheeseburger' flavor?
Ketchup, mustard, cheddar, and pickles combine to recreate the classic cheeseburger taste in every forkful.
- → What toppings go well with this skillet?
Extra cheddar, chopped dill pickles, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds enhance both texture and flavor.
- → Are there recommended side dishes?
A crisp lettuce-tomato salad balances out the richness and adds freshness to the meal.