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Quick Viral Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

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A quick and easy 30-minute pasta bake that combines the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy pasta, perfect for busy weeknights and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 8 ounces (225g) dry pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells)
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (2% milk works too)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Optional: diced pickles or a splash of ketchup for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) of dry pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound (450g) of ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until no longer pink and starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the empty side. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the paste caramelize slightly.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons butter and let melt. Pour in 1 cup (240ml) milk slowly while stirring. Add 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth. If sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  6. Fold in the cooked pasta. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or oregano. Mix thoroughly.
  7. Optional: Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with diced pickles or a drizzle of ketchup if desired. Enjoy warm.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta to prevent mushiness. Use sharp cheddar cheese for best melting and flavor. Stir cheese sauce off heat to avoid graininess. Don’t skip tomato paste for authentic cheeseburger flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Optional baking step adds a crispy top.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheeseburger pasta bake, quick dinner, easy pasta bake, comfort food, weeknight meal, cheesy pasta, ground beef recipe

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/quick-viral-cheeseburger-pasta-bake-recipe-30-minute-easy-dinner/