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Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is a creamy, savory, and comforting dish that combines the nostalgic flavors of a classic sloppy joe with tender pasta. This quick and easy one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, featuring ground beef simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and customizable options for vegetarians and those seeking a spicy or veggie-packed twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or pasta shells

Optional Variations

  • Vegetarian substitute: lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles instead of ground beef
  • Spicy additions: hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños
  • Cheese alternatives: mozzarella, pepper jack, smoked gouda
  • Veggie additions: diced bell peppers, peas, or shredded carrots
  • Low-carb substitute: cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef and Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
  2. Simmer with Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: Pour in the tomato sauce along with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and any other favorite seasonings. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.
  3. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, boil your chosen pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta but reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
  4. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat and stir in the milk or cream into the meat sauce, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Once melted and creamy, mix in the cooked pasta thoroughly to coat every bite.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Once everything is bubbly and well combined, transfer to bowls or a casserole dish and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and extra shredded cheese.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to maintain texture.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
  • Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go for the ideal balance.
  • Finish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy sloppy joe pasta, cheesy pasta, sloppy joe recipe, ground beef pasta, quick family dinner, comfort food pasta, easy one-pot pasta