Love our recipes? Show your support by following us ā pretty please!š„ŗ
FOLLOW ON PINTEREST
Hi! Iām Kate, the face behind KateFi.comāa blog all about making life easier and more affordable.
Craving the rich, savory taste of a juicy cheeseburger but need a budget-friendly meal that feeds the whole family? This Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet is your answer! Itās quick, easy, and packed with cheesy goodness ā all for under $5.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
ā
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and ground beef for a low-cost yet filling meal.
ā
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor!
ā
Kid-Approved: Tastes just like a cheeseburger but in comforting pasta form.
ā
Ready in 30 Minutes: Perfect for those busy weeknights.
Ingredients Youāll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (80/20 blend) | 1 lb | $3.00 |
| Elbow macaroni (or penne) | 2 cups | $0.75 |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium | $0.50 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | $0.20 |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) | $0.85 |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | $0.50 |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups | $1.50 |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp | $0.10 |
| Mustard | 1 tbsp | $0.05 |
| Ketchup | 2 tbsp | $0.10 |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | $0.05 |
| Optional toppings | Pickles, diced tomatoes | $0.50 |
Total Estimated Cost: ~$4.95
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add the Flavor
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and ketchup. This combo creates that signature cheeseburger flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Add the Pasta & Liquid
- Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Make it Cheesy
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Top with diced pickles, tomatoes, or a sprinkle of extra cheese for that true cheeseburger feel.
Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Pasta
š” Use Leftover Ground Beef: If youāve got leftover beef from Crockpot BBQ Chicken Tacos or Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf, this is a great way to repurpose it!
š” Add Veggies for More Nutrients: Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutrition.
š” Go Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like your cheeseburger with a kick.
Meal Prep & Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth to revive that creamy texture.
What to Serve with Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet
While this dish is filling on its own, here are some great budget-friendly pairings:
š„ Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for a refreshing contrast.
š Garlic bread or crusty rolls for dipping.
š„ Pickle spears to capture that cheeseburger magic.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet is the ultimate comfort meal thatās sure to become a household favorite. With all the rich, savory flavors of a cheeseburger in one easy skillet meal, you get a hearty dinner without draining your wallet.
Got your own spin on this dish? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below!
š” Follow KateFi.com on Pinterest for:
- Frugal living hacks
- Budget-friendly meal ideas
- Creative side hustle tips
- DIY tricks that save you money
More Budget-Friendly Dinners to Try:
