Description
Healthy Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—seasoned lean ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and tangy pickles—with wholesome whole wheat or gluten-free pasta and fresh vegetables. This quick, one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering comfort food vibes alongside balanced nutrition in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Meat
- 1 lb lean ground beef
Pasta & Grains
- 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (uncooked)
Dairy
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced pickles
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 ½ cups low-sodium beef broth or water
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until nicely browned. Drain any excess fat, then add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions soften and become fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth or water. Stir to combine. Add the uncooked whole wheat or gluten-free pasta directly into the skillet, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Simmer Until Pasta is Tender: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in Cheese and Pickles: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Cover and let the cheese melt naturally for a few minutes. Then gently fold in the diced pickles to add a tangy twist.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the cheese is melted and everything is warmed through, scoop the skillet contents into bowls or plates and enjoy a comforting, balanced meal.
Notes
- Use fresh onions, garlic, and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta to maintain a perfect al dente texture.
- Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese if you want a lighter dish without sacrificing creaminess.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale just before adding cheese to boost nutrition without altering the cheeseburger flavor.
- Let the skillet rest covered off the heat for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld perfectly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cheeseburger pasta, healthy skillet meal, quick dinner, one-pan pasta, family dinner, gluten-free pasta, comfort food
