Description
Cheeseburger Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make cold pasta salad that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with hearty elbow macaroni, ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Perfect as a summer side dish or BBQ favorite, this recipe is simple to prepare and sure to satisfy burger cravings in a unique, refreshing way.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Meat
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Garnish
- Shredded lettuce (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the beef thoroughly until no pink remains, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain off any excess fat and allow the meat to cool slightly.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cooked ground beef, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, and chopped dill pickles. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle juice, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and beef mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat all components with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, optionally garnish with shredded lettuce for added crunch and freshness.
Notes
- For a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use light mayonnaise to reduce calories.
- Enhance the burger flavor by adding chopped cooked bacon or using American cheese instead of cheddar.
- This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks and summer gatherings.
