Ingredients You Need
Below is a look at the ingredients you need to make this Cheeseburger Pasta recipe to share with the kids. This is one of those easy weeknight dinners or healthy family meals that works as well for a toddler as it does for the rest of the family. The pieces can be picked up and eaten as finger foods, but the flavors are nuanced enough for adults to appreciate, too. Pair this with a simple salad, Sliced Baked Apples, or side of fresh fruit for an easy meal for everyone at your table. (You may also like Skillet Lasagna, Cheesy Rice, Ground Beef Pasta, One-Pot Taco Pasta, and Pasta with Peas.) Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Ground beef: I typically use lean ground beef, or 90-95% lean, to reduce the need to drain the pan after cooking the meat. Any type will work though. Onion: White, yellow, or even red onion work to add flavor to the mixture. You can also simplify this recipe by using frozen diced onion. Carrot: I like to add shredded carrot to the mixture so there’s a veggie in the mix. You can skip this if you prefer. You can also use minced mushrooms, which blend in color-wise a little more seamlessly. Tomato sauce: This ingredient adds flavor and acidity, which helps ensure that the final pasta dish has ample taste. (You can use my Easy Marinara Sauce or Hidden Veggie Pasta Sauce if you prefer. Pasta: A small shape, such as small shells or elbow macaroni, is best here since it will cook all the way through the easiest. Broth: I usually use chicken broth here as I prefer the flavor, but beef broth works well, too. Reduced-sodium broth or stock has plenty of flavor, without as much sodium, so I usually use it here. (You can also use Vegetable Broth.) Shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese adds the creamy texture to the end result of the Cheeseburger Pasta. I buy it pre-shredded from the store, but you can also shred it on a box grater. Both blend in just fine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s an overview of how to make this recipe so you know what to expect from the process. Scroll down for the full recipe, including the amounts and the timing.
How to Store
Store leftover Cheeseburger Pasta in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To reheat, sprinkle with water and cover with a plate or wax paper and warm for 30-60 seconds in the microwave, stirring halfway through. This reheats really nicely, so it’s a great make ahead toddler dinner.
Serving Suggestions for Cheeseburger Pasta
We like to have this with a side of fresh fruit, a salad kit from the store, or my Cinnamon Apples, Fruit Cup, or Easy Roasted Broccoli.
Best Tips for Success
Use a small pasta shape, such as small shells or elbows, for the fastest, and most even cooking in this Cheeseburger Pasta recipe. Use lean ground beef if desired, or drain off any excess fat once the meat is done cooking. Use chicken broth or beef broth, according to your preference. I like to add garlic powder for enhanced flavor. You can also add freshly minced garlic to the pan with the onion if you prefer. Serve with optional garnishes including pickles, slivered green onions, spicy mustard, Dijon mustard, chopped tomatoes, black pepper, thinly sliced or pickled red onion, or other burger toppings you like. Find more iron-rich recipes for kids and our go-to Mini Meatballs and Easy Sloppy Joe’s.
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