Name: Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini or pasta of choice; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 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 black pepper, to taste; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning beef)

Craving a delicious comfort meal that combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the heartiness of pasta? Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is the perfect dish for you. This one-pan meal merges tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheddar, creating a family-friendly dinner that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta brings all the tastes of your favorite burger into a cheesy, comforting pasta dish that’s ideal for weeknights.

Ingredients:

12 oz rotini or pasta of choice
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
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 black pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning beef)

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil if you wish. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to reduce greasiness.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
With the cooked beef and onion mixture still in the skillet, pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well mixed. Allow the mixture to simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors blend. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta
Add the drained, cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef sauce mixture. Stir well, ensuring that each piece of pasta is fully coated with the flavorful beef sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts to a gooey consistency. For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, you can also place the skillet under the broiler for a couple of minutes.

Step 6: Serve
Serve this cheesy, comforting pasta hot, and enjoy the cheeseburger-inspired flavors with every bite.

Variation

For added flavor, try topping the dish with some diced dill pickles or a few jalapeño slices for a tangy or spicy kick. For a veggie boost, incorporate finely diced bell peppers or chopped mushrooms into the beef mixture while it cooks. To make it even creamier, you can add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce.

Cooking Note

This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated. If storing in the fridge, keep it in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or milk to keep the sauce from drying out, and heat it on low for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green side salad for a fresh contrast. You might also serve it with garlic bread or buttered dinner rolls to complete the comfort food experience. For garnish, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note.

Tips

For Added Flavor: Sprinkle diced pickles on top for a classic cheeseburger tang.
Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Choose Your Cheese: Swap cheddar with a cheese blend or add mozzarella for a stretchier texture.
Use Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce grease without sacrificing flavor.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: ~530
Protein: Approx. 25g
Sodium: Approx. 780mg

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety. Ensure the Worcestershire sauce used is also gluten-free.

Q2: Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

Q3: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, this pasta dish can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to keep it creamy.

Conclusion

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is a delightful way to enjoy the taste of a cheeseburger with the comfort of pasta. This hearty dish is packed with savory flavors and gooey cheese, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this one-pan pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite.