Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

This cheesy sloppy cheeseburger pasta combines all your favorite cheeseburger flavors in a comforting one-pot meal. The tender pasta soaks up the rich, savory sauce while melted cheese creates that irresistible gooey texture we all crave.

I created this recipe when my picky nephew came to visit and it was such a hit that it's now requested at every family gathering. The familiar cheeseburger flavors transformed into a pasta dish make even the pickiest eaters clean their plates.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: provides the hearty foundation. Look for 80/20 lean to fat ratio for best flavor
• Small onion and garlic: create an aromatic base. Fresh is always better than powdered
• Pasta: shapes with ridges like penne or rotini hold the sauce better than smooth varieties
• Beef broth: adds depth and helps cook the pasta right in the sauce
• Tomato sauce: gives classic sloppy joe flavor and creates the base for our sauce
• Worcestershire sauce: adds that umami depth that makes it taste like a real burger
• Mustard and ketchup: bring authentic burger condiment flavors to the dish
• Smoked paprika: adds a subtle smokiness reminiscent of grilled burgers
• Cheddar cheese: use sharp for more flavor or medium for creamier texture
• Heavy cream: creates silky richness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no pink remains about 5 to 7 minutes. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks using a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat but leave about a tablespoon in the pan for flavor.

Sauté Aromatics:

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent garlic from burning. The onions should become translucent and fragrant.

Build the Sauce:

Add uncooked pasta directly to the skillet along with beef broth tomato sauce Worcestershire sauce mustard ketchup and all seasonings. Stir thoroughly to ensure pasta is submerged in liquid and seasonings are evenly distributed.

Simmer to Perfection:

Bring mixture to a gentle boil then immediately reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight fitting lid and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check that pasta cooks evenly. The pasta should be al dente and most liquid absorbed.

Create Cheesy Finish:

Once pasta is tender stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar in batches allowing each addition to melt before adding more. Continue stirring gently until sauce becomes smooth and velvety about 2 to 3 minutes.

Rest and Garnish:

Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes which allows sauce to thicken slightly. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

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The smoked paprika is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered it years ago when trying to recreate that backyard grilled burger flavor indoors. My daughter now calls this "burger in a bowl" and it's become our Friday night tradition when we want comfort food without the fuss.

Make It Your Own

This recipe is incredibly versatile. For a healthier version use ground turkey and whole wheat pasta. To make it spicy add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can even go Mediterranean with feta cheese and oregano instead of cheddar. The cooking technique remains the same no matter how you customize the flavors.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices meld together. When reheating add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess as the pasta tends to absorb liquid while storing. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warmed through to prevent the cheese from separating.

Kid Friendly Modifications

This dish is already a hit with children but you can make it even more appealing by using fun pasta shapes like wagon wheels or dinosaurs. For extremely picky eaters try finely grating vegetables like carrots or zucchini into the sauce they'll cook down and become nearly invisible while adding nutrition. Serve with pickle spears on the side for an authentic burger experience that kids love.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne, rotini, or elbow pasta work best as they hold the sauce well. Feel free to use your favorite small pasta shape.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different flavor or dietary preference.

→ How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking for an extra kick of heat.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheddar melts better and creates a creamier sauce.

→ What garnishes work well with this dish?

Fresh parsley is great, but you can also try chopped green onions, a sprinkle of paprika, or grated Parmesan for added flavor.