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Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are softened and the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the Pasta:
Stir in the pasta and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and has absorbed some of the sauce. Add a little more broth if the mixture gets too dry during cooking.
5. Make it Creamy:
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and add the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and cream cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Serve:
Once everything is well combined and creamy, serve the Cheeseburger Pasta hot. Garnish with chopped pickles for that extra cheeseburger flavor (if desired), and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Why This Recipe Works:
- The Cheeseburger Flavor: The addition of Worcestershire sauce and mustard gives the dish that familiar cheeseburger flavor that everyone loves. It’s the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy.
- Creamy Texture: The cream cheese and cheddar cheese create a velvety, cheesy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. The combination of melted cheese and tender pasta is pure comfort food.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering a full-flavored meal.
Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Pasta with Cheese:
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile. A blend of cheeses will also add depth.
- Make it Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños for a little heat if you like your food with a kick.
- Veggie Boost: You can sneak in some extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to make the dish more nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish is great for meal prep! Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring it back to life.
Final Thoughts:
Cheeseburger Pasta with Cheese is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious and satisfying. It’s comforting, cheesy, and bursting with flavors that everyone loves. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.
Next time you’re craving a cheeseburger, skip the bun and turn your craving into a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s even better!
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