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Spring hasn’t quite sprung in Chicago yet, but I have the perfect recipe to welcome the season!
Fast, easy, and delicious—this one-pot hamburger pasta is a comforting, family-friendly meal packed with a generous dose of veggies. Combining hearty ground beef, a rainbow of fresh vegetables, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a flavorful way to enjoy a balanced meal without extra hassle. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.
Want to take it up a notch? Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or kale for extra flavor and nutrition. Cheese lovers can experiment with different varieties like mozzarella for an extra gooey bite. You can also swap regular pasta for whole grain or legume-based options to boost fiber and protein. These simple tweaks make this one-pot meal both nutritious and satisfying for everyone at the table.
Prep & Cook Time:Prep Time: 5 minutesCook Time: 30 minutesServes: 4
Ingredients:1 medium zucchini, grated1 cup carrot, diced1 medium yellow onion, diced1 cup mushrooms, diced1 tablespoon olive oil10-12 oz. lean ground beefSalt, to tastePepper, to taste1 teaspoon chili powder1 teaspoon paprika1 teaspoon garlic powder2 cups bow tie pasta (farfalle) or pasta of choice, uncooked2 cups low-sodium beef broth1 ½ cups whole milk1 tablespoon tomato paste1 ½ - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheeseFresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:1. Prep the vegetables by grating the zucchini, peeling and dicing the carrots, and dicing the onion and mushrooms. Set aside.2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, drizzle with olive oil and add the ground beef. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, breaking the beef into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.3. Add the onions, carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the veggies begin to soften.4. Season with chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well to evenly coat the beef and vegetables.5. Add the uncooked pasta, beef broth, and milk to the skillet. Stir in the tomato paste until well combined.6. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.7. Continue simmering for another 10-12 minutes until the broth is fully reduced.8. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Chef’s Tip:For the best texture, use whole milk to prevent the sauce from breaking while the pasta cooks. Plant-based milk will not yield the same creamy consistency.