Cheeseburger Pasta Salad

Published: June 1, 2025

by Hailey parker

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: I recommend using rotini or penne for their ability to hold onto the dressing and flavors well.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balanced flavor without too much grease.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds that classic cheeseburger flavor to each bite.
Pickles: Dill pickles add a tangy crunch that elevates the whole salad experience.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide freshness and vibrant color to the mix.
Red Onion: Diced red onion adds a sweet crunch; soak them in water if you want to mellow their flavor.
Mayonnaise: Use full fat mayonnaise for creaminess; Greek yogurt works for a lighter option.
Ketchup: Adds sweetness and depth reminiscent of your favorite burgers. delicious grilled burgers.
Mustard: A touch of mustard gives it that classic burger zing everyone loves.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those delicious flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add about 8 ounces of pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add one pound of ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula until no pink remains. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Add Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, browned beef, shredded cheddar cheese, diced pickles, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion. Pour dressing over the mixture.

Toss Until Coated: Gently toss everything together until evenly coated with dressing. Adjust seasoning if needed; sometimes it helps to taste test your creation.

Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those amazing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Cheeseburger Pasta Salad! Whether it’s at home on a lazy afternoon or as part of your next big gathering, this dish is sure to impress! sheet pan steak fajitas.

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This delightful cheeseburger pasta salad combines all your favorite burger flavors in a refreshing dish. It’s perfect for picnics and barbecues, making meal prep easy and delicious. The colorful veggies and creamy dressing bring a vibrant touch to any gathering. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta al dente while you chop the veggies and cook the beef. This way, everything comes together seamlessly and saves time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or veggie crumbles. You can also add extra toppings like pickles or jalapeños for that kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To keep your pasta salad fresh, always rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking. This stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy. Also, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. [/info_box]

Creating this dish reminds me of summer cookouts with friends, where laughter and great food filled the air. fresh avocado pasta salad Everyone loved diving into this cheeseburger pasta salad! You might also enjoy this Grilled Corn Avocado Pasta Salad recipe.

FAQ

How do I prevent my pasta from getting soggy?

Rinse cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process immediately.

Can I make cheeseburger pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better when allowed to chill overnight in the fridge.

What alternative dressings can I use for this salad?

Try ranch or thousand island dressing for different flavor profiles that complement well.

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