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Cheeseburger pasta with rigatoni in creamy cheddar cheese sauce and ground beef
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Cheeseburger Pasta

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta

Cheeseburger Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded

Garnish

  • fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

  • Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles, until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the beef broth, ketchup, and mustard. Stir to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, then add the shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted and smooth.
  • Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss until every piece is coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  • Serve immediately, topped with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

For the creamiest sauce, shred your own cheddar from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days — reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.