If you’re a fan of comfort food, get ready to fall in love with Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta. This dish combines the best of two classics—sloppy joes and cheeseburgers—into one hearty, cheesy, and utterly satisfying pasta bake. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potlucks, this recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious dish, share tips for customizing it, and explain why it’s a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, cheesy meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Combines the flavors of sloppy joes and cheeseburgers with creamy, cheesy pasta.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty, flavorful dish.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings or add-ins.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or crumbled bacon
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika (if using), chili powder, and beef broth. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Give the pasta a final stir to incorporate the melted cheese. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, or crumbled bacon.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for an extra-rich sauce.
- Double the Recipe: This dish reheats well, so make extra for leftovers or meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but here are a few side dishes to complete your meal:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a healthy touch with roasted broccoli or zucchini.
- Corn on the Cob: A classic side that pairs well with this cheesy dish.
