Name: Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Pasta.
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound farfalle pasta; 1 pound lean ground beef; Kosher salt and pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 tablespoons ketchup; 2 tablespoons yellow mustard; 16 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 cup chicken stock (or reserved pasta water); 4 green onions (thinly sliced); 2 cups cherry tomatoes (chopped)

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When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity is key, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Enter Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Pasta, a dish that combines all the comforting elements of a classic cheeseburger in a pasta form, all cooked on a single sheet pan for minimal cleanup. This delightful concoction is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a mouthwatering flavor explosion that the whole family will adore. With a blend of ground beef, pasta, and gooey cheese, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Top Reasons to Make Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Pasta.

One-Pan Wonder: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; everything cooks together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger transformed into a pasta dish.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and a cooking duration of just around 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have at home or personal preferences.
Flavor Packed: The combination of sharp white cheddar, ketchup, and mustard creates a rich, savory profile that’s hard to resist.

The Ingredient Lineup

1 pound farfalle pasta
1 pound lean ground beef
Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
16 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup chicken stock, or reserved pasta water
4 green onions, thinly sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, chopped

Cook’s Kit

Sheet Pan: A large, rimmed baking sheet will do the trick.
Large Pot: For boiling the pasta to al dente perfection.
Colander: To drain the pasta once cooked.
Wooden Spoon: For mixing and ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Mastering Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Pasta: How-To

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pasta and beef will cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the farfalle pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

On your sheet pan, add the lean ground beef. Season with kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Using a wooden spoon, break up the beef and spread it evenly across the pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until browned.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Beef

After the beef is cooked, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Add the drained pasta to the pan along with the ketchup, mustard, and chicken stock (or reserved pasta water). Mix everything thoroughly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Tomatoes

Sprinkle the shredded sharp white cheddar cheese over the pasta and beef mixture, followed by the chopped cherry tomatoes. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to ensure melty goodness throughout.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Return the sheet pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the thinly sliced green onions on top for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Pasta!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini in the spring for a fresh twist.
In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash for a comforting sweetness.
For a summer taste, include grilled corn or fresh basil to enhance the flavor.
In winter, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add a delightful warmth.

Little Things that Matter

Make sure to not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses; mozzarella or pepper jack can add a unique flavor profile.
For added texture, consider topping with breadcrumbs before the last bake for a crunchy finish.
Using freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavor profile significantly!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

This Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Pasta is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock if necessary to keep it moist.

Quick Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you love, such as penne or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative like lentils, chickpeas, or a meat substitute to create a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Pasta! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cook This Next

Creamy Pasta Bake – Another comforting dish that’s perfect for the whole family.
Cheesy Vegetable Casserole – A delightful way to sneak in some veggies.
Spicy Chicken Pasta – For those who like a little kick in their meal.
One-Pot Macaroni and Cheese – A classic comfort food that’s easy to whip up.

Final Bite

There you have it – a deliciously satisfying and straightforward recipe that brings the beloved flavors of cheeseburgers into a pasta dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Pasta is destined to become a favorite in your household. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends. Happy cooking!