Name: Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 12 oz rotini or any pasta of choice; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp mustard; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning beef)

Looking for a meal that combines two fan-favorites in one dish? Look no further! Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is the perfect comfort food that combines the hearty, savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the deliciously gooey, cheesy goodness of pasta. It’s a meal that both kids and adults will devour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent but easy to prepare.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into how to make this mouthwatering dish, share some tips for getting the best results, and explore variations to keep things exciting.

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this cheesy masterpiece:

1 lb ground beef: The cornerstone of this dish, ground beef provides the rich, savory flavor that is a key component of any cheeseburger.
1 small onion, diced: Onions add a mild sweetness and savory depth to the beef, making this dish even more flavorful.
1 garlic clove, minced: Garlic is a classic addition to just about any savory dish, and it brings an aromatic intensity to the beef mixture.
12 oz rotini or any pasta of your choice: Rotini’s spiral shape holds onto the sauce, making each bite even more delicious. However, feel free to use any pasta you prefer!
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: The tangy base for the sloppy cheeseburger sauce, providing depth and richness.
1/4 cup ketchup: Ketchup adds a sweet and tangy layer to the sauce, mimicking the classic cheeseburger flavor.
2 tbsp mustard: The mustard brings a sharp, zesty note that cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef.
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: This sauce adds a savory, umami flavor that balances the other ingredients perfectly.
1 tsp garlic powder: A little extra garlic flavor goes a long way in this recipe.
1 tsp onion powder: Onion powder enhances the natural sweetness and savory depth of the dish.
Salt and pepper, to taste: The basic seasonings that will elevate all the other flavors.
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: The cheesy element that binds everything together. The cheddar adds richness and flavor, making the pasta extra indulgent.
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning beef): Olive oil helps in browning the beef and gives it a crisp, caramelized texture.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking instructions.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions, usually for around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later. Make sure not to overcook it, as the pasta will cook further when combined with the beef mixture in the skillet.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to focus on the beef. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (if you’re using it) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is crucial because the onions and garlic will release their natural sweetness, which will flavor the beef mixture.

Step 4: Add the Sauces and Seasonings

Now it’s time to build the sloppy cheeseburger sauce. Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce. The pasta will absorb some of the savory flavors, which is exactly what you want. Now, gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it extra creamy and cheesy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is now ready to be served! Spoon the mixture onto plates and garnish with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs, if desired. It’s a cheesy, hearty meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Notes: Helpful Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this recipe, you can also experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Ground Beef Alternatives: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version of this dish.
Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, you can add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.
Storage: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

This dish is a perfect combination of two beloved meals: sloppy joes and cheeseburgers, served over pasta. The hearty beef mixture is rich, flavorful, and full of all the components you love in a classic cheeseburger. Plus, the cheese adds a melty, indulgent texture that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or making a meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Variations You Can Try

Spicy Version: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
BBQ Cheeseburger Pasta: Swap out the ketchup for barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative like Beyond Meat or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly meal.

Why Pasta and Cheeseburgers Go Hand-in-Hand

Pasta and cheeseburgers are both comfort food classics, and when combined, they create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. The pasta serves as the perfect base for the beef, while the cheesy, savory sauce brings everything together. It’s the ultimate meal for anyone craving a comforting, filling dish that doesn’t take long to prepare.

The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Although this dish is a meal on its own, there are plenty of delicious side dishes you can serve alongside it for an even more satisfying dinner. Here are some ideas:

Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce and add a crunchy texture.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, balances out the richness of the cheesy pasta.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing crunch.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food Combo

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of both worlds—cheeseburgers and pasta—into one mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick and hearty dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy. It’s flavorful, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that everyone will love.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and make this indulgent dish tonight!

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your creation on social media! And for more delicious ideas, check out these other recipes you’re sure to enjoy:

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is the ultimate comfort food fusion. This dish combines the classic flavors of a sloppy cheeseburger with creamy, cheesy pasta for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual weeknight meals. Packed with ground beef, tangy sauces, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
12 oz rotini or any pasta of choice
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp mustard
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning beef)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil (if using) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Add the Sauces:
Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Combine Pasta and Cheese:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve:
Serve your Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Optional Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even pickles for an extra twist.
Cheese Variations: You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or a combination of both for a different cheese pull experience.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Comfort Food, Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American