If you’re craving a comforting dish that combines the best of burgers and pasta, this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is a must-try! It’s a family-friendly, one-pot meal that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with all the classic cheeseburger flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick and hearty dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Cheeseburger Pasta:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or small pasta of choice
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Diced pickles
- Chopped parsley
- Crumbled bacon
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess grease, leaving a small amount for flavor. Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Step 2: Add the Flavor Base
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the uncooked pasta. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Make It Cheesy
- Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Spoon the cheesy sloppy cheeseburger pasta into bowls.
- Garnish with optional toppings like diced pickles, crumbled bacon, or parsley for a burst of flavor and color.
Cooking Notes
- Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add Veggies: Mix in chopped bell peppers, frozen peas, or diced carrots for added nutrition.
- Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking for a richer or lighter dish.
Variations
- Spicy Cheeseburger Pasta: Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta: Stir in crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.
2. Can I freeze this dish?
While the pasta may lose a bit of its texture after freezing, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely! Swap cheddar and mozzarella with your favorite cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for added flavor.
Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. With its bold cheeseburger-inspired flavors, creamy sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll want to add to your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this dish delivers every time.
Give it a try tonight, and watch it disappear from plates in no time!