If you are searching for a dish that brings together the comforting goodness of a cheeseburger with the hearty satisfaction of pasta, look no further than this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe. It’s a soul-warming, flavor-packed meal that blends savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and plenty of melty cheddar cheese all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Every bite delivers that nostalgic sloppy joe vibe in a new, much-loved form, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or anytime comfort food for your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe has a job to do, from the bold seasoning of the beef to the creamy melt of cheddar cheese, and even the tang from Worcestershire sauce that lifts the whole dish. These simple staples come together seamlessly to create a dish that’s deeply satisfying in taste and texture.
- Ground beef: The rich, meaty base that brings the classic cheeseburger flavor to your pasta.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the tangy sauce perfectly.
- Garlic clove, minced: Provides a subtle punch of aromatic flavor that enhances everything.
- Rotini pasta (12 oz): Its spiral shape holds the sauce beautifully, making every bite saucy and delicious.
- Tomato sauce (15 oz): The savory foundation of your sauce that keeps it comforting and familiar.
- Ketchup (1/4 cup): Brings a hint of sweetness and that unmistakably nostalgic sloppy joe element.
- Mustard (2 tbsp): Adds a tangy sharpness to brighten all the flavors.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tbsp): Infuses a rich umami depth that makes this dish stand out.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp) and onion powder (1 tsp): Kick up the savory notes without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to season and balance every ingredient perfectly.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups): The crowning glory that melts over the pasta for irresistibly cheesy goodness.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp, optional): Helps brown the beef evenly if desired, boosting flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start with a large pot of salted boiling water and cook your rotini pasta according to the package instructions. The spiral shape of rotini is fantastic for holding onto every bit of sauce later. Once tender and perfectly al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside as we move on to the flavorful beef.
Step 2: Brown the Beef with Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil if you’re using it to help the beef brown nicely. Add the ground beef alongside diced onions and minced garlic. Cook everything until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened beautifully. This step builds the savory foundation that makes this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe so comforting.
Step 3: Prepare the Sloppy Joe-Style Sauce
To the cooked beef mixture, stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in your garlic powder and onion powder, then stir everything thoroughly. Let this simmer gently on low heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to suit your taste!
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Beef Sauce
Take your cooked pasta and add it straight into the skillet with that rich sloppy joe beef sauce. Mix it all together thoroughly, ensuring every piece of rotini is coated with that saucy, cheesy goodness. This combination is what transforms this meal from typical pasta into the Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe you’ll crave again and again.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Melt to Perfection
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of your skillet mixture. Cover the pan and let it sit for a couple of minutes so the cheese melts into gooey perfection. If you want to go that extra mile for a golden, bubbly cheese crust, pop the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes. This finishing touch really puts the whole dish over the top!
How to Serve Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up this hearty dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions. A dollop of sour cream or a few dashes of hot sauce can also add a great contrast and elevate each serving.
Side Dishes
A fresh garden salad or a simple side of steamed broccoli works wonderfully with the richness of this pasta. If you want some crunch, garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are fantastic companions that soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner, serve this pasta in individual cast iron skillets or bake it in a casserole dish topped with even more cheese and breadcrumbs for a golden crust. Leftovers also make excellent stuffed peppers or baked pasta cups for lunches!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Freezing
You can freeze the Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe either cooked or just the sauce and beef mixture separately. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. You can also microwave it covered in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding every bit of sauce, you can swap in penne, macaroni, or even egg noodles. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or cooked lentils for a delicious vegetarian take that still delivers satisfying texture and flavor.
How spicy is this pasta dish?
This Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe is designed to be mild and family-friendly. However, if you like a kick, add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Sure! You can make the beef sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and combine with heated sauce and cheese for the best texture and taste.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
A sharp or medium cheddar both work wonderfully. Sharp cheddar gives a bolder, tangier flavor while medium adds creaminess without overwhelming the dish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, packed with nostalgic flavors, and loved by all ages. If you want a comforting, satisfying meal that comes together quickly and pleases a crowd, this dish is your new go-to. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a family favorite in no time!
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Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta recipe that combines seasoned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese tossed with rotini pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Meat and Veggies
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Pasta
- 12 oz rotini or any pasta of choice
Sauces and Seasonings
- 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
Cheese
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Other
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning beef)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil if using. Add the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Prepare the Sauce: To the cooked beef mixture, add tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to combine, then reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the beef sauce. Stir thoroughly so that all the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, optionally place the skillet under a broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy sloppy cheeseburger pasta hot and enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can use any pasta shape you prefer, though rotini works best for holding the sauce.
- If you want to reduce fat, you can skip the olive oil since the ground beef usually has enough fat for browning.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Using sharp cheddar cheese enhances the cheesy flavor, but mild cheddar works too.
