Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a one-pan, hearty meal that satisfies the whole family, and this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta does just that! It’s a comfort food favorite, combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the coziness of pasta. My family loved how cheesy and rich it was, and it quickly became a requested dish for weeknights. The addition of Worcestershire sauce and mustard brings out that signature burger taste, making it a fantastic way to enjoy cheeseburger flavors without the bun!

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)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

1. Cook the Beef:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil if needed. Brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until beef is fully cooked and onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• Add tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the beef mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

1. Combine with Pasta:

• Mix the cooked pasta into the beef sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated with sauce.

1. Add the Cheese:

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. For a golden, bubbly cheese top, place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes.

1. Serve:

• Serve hot, and enjoy this cheesy, hearty meal!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4-6
• Calories per serving: 530

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• With Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Side Salad: Serve with a green salad for added veggies.
• Hot Sauce Drizzle: Add a bit of hot sauce for extra kick.
• Extra Cheese: Add a dollop of sour cream or an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese on each serving.

Additional Tips

1. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
2. Choose Your Favorite Pasta: While rotini works well, you can use penne, elbow macaroni, or bow ties.
3. Drain Excess Fat: After cooking the beef, drain any fat to avoid a greasy dish.
4. Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings at the end; sometimes, a bit more salt or pepper enhances flavors.
5. Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Recipe Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Option: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra veggies, like mushrooms and zucchini.
• Bacon Cheeseburger: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a bacon cheeseburger twist.
• Different Cheese: Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for more vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: A Caesar or green salad balances the richness of the dish.
• With Cornbread: Cornbread pairs nicely and adds a bit of sweetness.
• Appetizer Pairing: Serve with a veggie platter or bruschetta as an appetizer.
• With Sweet Potato Fries: Add a side of crispy sweet potato fries for a full meal.
• Perfect for Potlucks: Bring it to gatherings as a comforting and filling dish everyone will enjoy.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the pasta and beef sauce separately and combine just before serving for fresh flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta if planning to freeze, as it will soften when reheated.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different pasta?
   Yes, you can substitute rotini with penne, elbow macaroni, or any pasta shape you like.
2. What’s the best cheese to use?
   Cheddar works well, but you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or use extra vegetables.
4. Is there a way to make this spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
5. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef in this recipe.
6. How can I make it gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all condiments, like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free.
7. Can I add other vegetables?
   Definitely. Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach would be great additions.
8. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
   Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems too dry.
9. Can I add bacon?
   Yes! Add cooked and crumbled bacon when combining the pasta and beef sauce.
10. How do I prevent the cheese from getting greasy?
    Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded, as pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can lead to greasiness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is a fun twist on two beloved comfort foods – cheeseburgers and pasta! This recipe is simple, quick, and packed with flavors the whole family will love. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a burger craving or want a hearty pasta dish, this recipe delivers in both taste and texture. Give it a try, and it might just become a regular on your dinner rotation! Enjoy the gooey cheese, savory beef, and the delicious cheeseburger-inspired flavors in every bite.

Print