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Norah Kay

One Pot Pasta: Cheeseburger Pasta (Made a Touch Healthier)

This one pot pasta recipe combines everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger with the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese—all in a single pan. Made lighter with lean meat, Greek yogurt, and fiber-rich pasta, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but fuels your body right.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course, One Pot Meal
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein & Flavor Base
  • 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey 90/10
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
Sauce & Pasta
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp ketchup low sugar
  • 1 ½ tbsp yellow mustard
  • 3 cups low-sodium beef broth or bone broth
  • 8 oz whole wheat chickpea, or lentil pasta
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt 2% or full-fat
Optional Add-ins & Toppings
  • ½ cup chopped zucchini or riced cauliflower
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
  • Pickle slices or jalapeños optional

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or deep skillet with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cheese grater
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Sauté the Base:
  1. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Add the Cheeseburger Flavors:
  1. Stir in tomato paste, mustard, and ketchup. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavor.
Add Pasta and Broth:
  1. Pour in the broth and dry pasta. Stir well to combine and ensure pasta is submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish with Creamy Cheese:
  1. Once the pasta is tender and most liquid absorbed, turn off the heat. Stir in shredded cheese and Greek yogurt until creamy and well combined.
Serve & Garnish:
  1. Top with fresh parsley, pickles, or jalapeños if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
🔹 Nutrition Info (per serving, estimate for 6 servings)
  1. Calories: 410
  2. Protein: 32g
  3. Carbs: 38g
  4. Fat: 17g
  5. Fiber: 5g
  6. Sugar: 3g
  7. Sodium: 540mg

Notes

🔹 Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for more flavor with less cheese.
  • Greek yogurt gives the sauce creaminess without the heaviness.
  • Stir gently every few minutes to avoid sticking.
  • This recipe is freezer-friendly—store portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
  • For gluten-free: use chickpea or lentil pasta.