If you’ve ever craved the hearty flavors of a sloppy cheeseburger, but didn’t want the usual bun, then this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is just what you need.
Imagine the savory ground beef, tangy ketchup, and melted cheddar cheese all coming together with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a fun, easy twist on the classic cheeseburger that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or something to impress guests, this dish has all the flavors you love, wrapped up in a simple pasta recipe.
Why You Should Try This Dish
What makes this pasta recipe special is its perfect balance of familiar flavors. The ground beef provides a rich, savory base, while the combination of ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy kick. Add to that the creamy melted cheddar cheese, and you’ve got a dish that hits all the right notes.
Best of all, it’s easy to make and takes under 30 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect solution for a busy weeknight meal.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
To make this cheesy, meaty pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to add more if you’re a cheese lover!)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add your elbow macaroni (or whatever pasta you prefer) and cook according to the package directions.
After cooking, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve 1 cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help loosen the sauce later if needed.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet if needed to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and the garlic is fragrant. This will help deepen the flavors of the dish and create a savory base for your sauce.
4. Make the Sauce
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything well, then bring the sauce to a simmer.
Allow it to cook on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process helps the sauce thicken and allows all the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine Pasta with Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, it’s time to add the pasta. Pour the cooked pasta into the skillet, stirring gently to coat it evenly in the rich sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a creamier texture.
6. Add Cheese and Season
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook until the cheese melts, making the sauce wonderfully creamy and cheesy. Once everything is combined, taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. For a fresh burst of flavor, add some chopped parsley on top for garnish.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Your Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is now ready to serve! Plate it up and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness. If you like, you can serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce or enjoy it alongside a fresh green salad to balance out the richness.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which we doubt will happen!), here’s how to keep it fresh:
Refrigeration:
- Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing:
- This dish freezes well! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth or water to bring it back to its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts: Why This Dish Is So Great
This Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is a game-changer. It’s a delicious combination of a beloved comfort food and a quick, easy pasta dish. The savory beef, tangy tomato sauce, and rich cheddar cheese are all perfectly balanced, making it a meal everyone will enjoy.
Not only is it easy to make and perfect for busy nights, but it also keeps well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or leftovers. Plus, you can customize it by adding other ingredients like jalapeños, pickles, or even crispy bacon for extra flavor.
So, whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or something hearty for a gathering, this dish will never disappoint. Give it a try, and see why it’s destined to become a family favorite!
Ready to make your own Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this cheesy, comforting meal. Don’t forget to share your results with us—whether it’s your first try or your hundredth, we’d love to hear how it turns out!
