🍔 Smashburger Rigatoni Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Smashburger Rigatoni has all the flavor of a classic smashburger — crispy beef, melty cheese, and that unmistakable burger sauce vibe — but in cozy, creamy pasta form.It’s a one-pan, weeknight dinner my kids absolutely devour, and it’s become one of those recipes I get asked for every single time I make it.

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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef 80/20 works best
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
8 oz rigatoni pasta
1½ cups beef broth
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp yellow mustard
Optional smashburger toppings:
Chopped dill pickles
Finely diced onion
Sesame seeds for garnish

Method

Brown the beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and press it into the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get crispy, smashburger-style edges before breaking it up.
Season
Season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
Cook the pasta
Add the rigatoni and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until pasta is tender, about 12–14 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Make it creamy
Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar, mozzarella, ketchup, and mustard. Mix until melted, creamy, and evenly coated.
Finish & serve
Simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes until thick and glossy. Top with pickles or onion if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Tips for the Best Smashburger Pasta

Don’t stir the beef too early — those crispy bits are key
Use sharp cheddar for true burger flavor
If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen it
This reheats beautifully for leftovers

What to Serve With It

🥦 Roasted Broccoli with Lemon & Parmesan
🥗 Simple Caesar or arugula salad
🥒 Pickles or a crunchy veggie tray (very kid-approved)