Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Burger Pasta Salad is a fun fusion of two classics – a burger and a pasta salad! The ground beef is seasoned and cooked with melty cheese, making it just as satisfying as a burger patty. The creamy French dressing and the crunch of pickles and lettuce bring freshness and flavor. The addition of cherry tomatoes and red onions adds a pop of color and tangy zest, making it a well-rounded, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 8 oz pasta (your choice of type)
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil (for tossing pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup pickles, finely diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- For the Burger Sauce:
- 1/4 cup creamy French dressing
- 3 tbsp reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 tsp turmeric (for flavor and color)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, reserve ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water and drain the pasta. Transfer the pasta to a sheet pan to cool, and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Meanwhile, heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (a cast iron skillet works great) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Once browned, break the meat apart with a spatula or meat masher.
- Season the Beef: Continue cooking the beef for 5-6 more minutes or until it is no longer pink. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the beef is fully cooked to 160°F. Remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Make the Burger Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the creamy French dressing, reserved pasta water, sweet pickle relish, turmeric, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Whisk together until smooth.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and cooked ground beef with the melted cheese. Pour the burger sauce over the pasta and beef mixture and stir to combine. Add the diced pickles, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and red onion. Toss gently until everything is evenly mixed.
- Serve: Serve the Burger Pasta Salad immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill before serving for an even more refreshing dish.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 15-20 minutes to cook the ground beef and let everything cool.
Variations
- Add more veggies: You can add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even roasted vegetables for more flavor and color.
- Add a spicy kick: If you love spicy food, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salad.
- Make it vegetarian: You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh or a veggie burger patty.
Storage/Reheating
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits. It can be served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s a great option for meal prep or to take to gatherings.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use mozzarella, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative to suit your preferences.
3. How can I add more protein to the salad?
If you’d like more protein, you can add hard-boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
4. Can I use a different dressing instead of French dressing?
Yes, you can swap out the French dressing for ranch, thousand island, or any other creamy dressing of your choice.
5. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
6. Can I add more spices to the beef?
Absolutely! You can experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or smoked chili powder to customize the flavor of the beef.
7. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This salad will last up to 2 days in the fridge, but the textures of the vegetables may soften slightly over time.
8. Can I serve this warm?
Yes, this salad can be served warm as a hearty meal, or chilled for a refreshing dish.
9. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Tossing the pasta with olive oil right after draining helps keep it from sticking together as it cools.
Conclusion
This Burger Pasta Salad is a fun, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. With tender pasta, juicy beef, melty cheese, and a tangy, creamy dressing, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, it’s an easy and satisfying meal everyone will love. Enjoy the combination of burger flavors in a fresh, new way!
Print
Cheeseburger Pasta Salad with Meat
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Burger Pasta Salad combines the hearty flavors of a juicy burger with the refreshing texture of pasta. Featuring seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, crunchy pickles, and a creamy French dressing, it’s the perfect side dish or light meal for summer gatherings, picnics, or casual dinners.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
8 oz pasta (your choice of type)
1/2 tbsp olive oil (for tossing pasta)
1 lb ground beef
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
3/4 cup pickles, finely diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
For the Burger Sauce:
1/4 cup creamy French dressing
3 tbsp reserved pasta water
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
1/4 tsp turmeric (for flavor and color)
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, reserve ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water and drain the pasta. Transfer the pasta to a sheet pan to cool, and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking.
-
Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Break the meat apart with a spatula or meat masher. Continue cooking for 5-6 more minutes or until fully browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Allow the beef to cool to room temperature.
-
Make the Burger Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the French dressing, reserved pasta water, sweet pickle relish, turmeric, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Whisk together until smooth.
-
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta and cooked ground beef with melted cheese. Pour the burger sauce over the mixture and stir to combine. Add diced pickles, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and red onion. Toss gently until everything is evenly mixed.
-
Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill before serving for an even more refreshing dish.
Notes
Add Protein: For extra protein, top with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs.
Add More Veggies: Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or roasted vegetables for more flavor and color.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh or a veggie burger patty.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Salad, Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
