Zesty Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe for Family Fun

Mixing classic comfort with a playful twist, this cheesy sloppy cheeseburger pasta brings burger-inspired magic right to your dinner table.

Familiar flavors dance together in a single skillet, creating something magical and unexpected.

Ground beef gets cozy with pasta, melting cheese, and zesty seasonings for a quick meal that satisfies deep hunger.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this one-pan wonder.

Layers of rich, savory goodness promise to make everyone at the table smile.

Kids and adults alike will devour this crowd-pleasing dish that combines two ultimate favorites into one irresistible meal.

You won’t be able to resist diving into this delicious creation.

What’s Inside Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

• Ground Beef: A flavorful protein that forms the hearty foundation of the dish.
• Elbow Macaroni: A classic pasta shape that provides a perfect base for the cheesy beef mixture.

• Onions, Garlic: These ingredients add depth and aromatic complexity to the beef sauce.
• Diced Tomatoes: Contribute moisture and tangy brightness to the overall flavor profile.

• Ketchup, Tomato Paste: Help create a rich, slightly sweet and concentrated tomato base.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and adds moisture to the sauce.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the dish's taste.
• Dried Oregano: Introduces a classic herb note that complements the beef.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Provides a subtle umami and tangy undertone to the sauce.

• Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Create a melty, golden, and irresistibly cheesy crust.

• Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking in the baking dish.

How to Cook Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Place ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break the meat into small crumbles while cooking until no pink remains. This process takes about 7-8 minutes, creating a delicious base for your pasta bake.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic

Cook until onions become translucent and release a mouthwatering fragrance, typically 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Create Flavorful Sauce

• Diced tomatoes
• Ketchup
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth

Mix thoroughly to combine all components.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried oregano
• Worcestershire sauce

Allow the flavors to meld together for 2-3 minutes, creating a deeply savory base.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Boil elbow macaroni in a separate pot according to package instructions. Drain completely once cooked to al dente.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Gently mix the cooked pasta with the beef sauce, ensuring every noodle gets coated with the delicious mixture.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Grease a large baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 8: Transfer and Top

Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly across the surface.

Step 9: Add Cheese Topping

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts completely and turns golden and bubbly.

Step 11: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. This allows the cheese to set and flavors to fully develop. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting pasta bake!

Top Tips for Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

• Drain Pasta Thoroughly: Ensure macaroni is well-drained to prevent watery sauce and maintain the casserole's desired consistency.
• Layer Cheese Strategically: Spread cheese evenly across the top for a uniform golden-brown crust that adds delicious texture and flavor.
• Control Meat Browning: Cook ground beef until no pink remains, breaking into small crumbles for better integration with sauce and even cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste the meat sauce before baking and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance overall dish flavor profile.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking to help cheese set and let flavors meld together perfectly.

Flavor Variations for Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

• Gluten-Free Pasta Beef Casserole: Replace regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, maintaining the same sauce and cheese layers for a meat-free alternative.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Bake: Use spiralized zucchini noodles instead of pasta, reducing carbohydrates while keeping the hearty beef and cheese experience.
• Spicy Mexican-Style Casserole: Add diced green chilies, replace oregano with cumin, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.

What Sides Go Best with Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

• Pair Bold Red Wine: Robust cabernet sauvignon or zinfandel complements the hearty beef and cheese flavors, cutting through the richness with its tannic structure.
• Serve Fresh Green Salad: Crisp mixed greens with light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the heavy, cheesy pasta dish, balancing the meal's richness.
• Match Craft Beer: Amber ale or hoppy IPA offers a malty, slightly bitter counterpoint that enhances the beef's savory notes and stands up to the strong cheese profile.
• Accompany Garlic Bread: Crusty, toasted garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and aromatic element that perfectly rounds out the comforting pasta casserole experience.

Storing and Reheating Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the pasta dish fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil to retain moisture, and warm for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain creamy texture.

Answers to Common Questions About Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent lean alternative that works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and seasoned well.

• Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love cheesy pasta with meat sauce. The familiar flavors and cheesy topping make it a crowd-pleaser for children of all ages.

• How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe is mild and not spicy. If you want heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Why Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Hits the Spot

• Craft a Comforting Classic: A hearty beef and pasta casserole that delivers pure comfort food satisfaction with minimal kitchen effort.
• Master a Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings where everyone craves a delicious, filling dish that's packed with flavor.
• Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows for quick ingredient swaps like ground turkey, different cheese blends, or added vegetables to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences.
• Budget-Friendly Cooking: Uses affordable, readily available ingredients that stretch to feed multiple people without breaking the bank, making it an economical dinner solution.

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sloppy cheeseburger pasta delivers classic American comfort food in one skillet, merging juicy ground beef with melted cheese and hearty pasta. Bold flavors and creamy textures invite you to savor each delicious, indulgent bite of this crowd-pleasing meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/4 cup beef broth

Seasoning and Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp worcestershire sauce

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a large baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles until no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
3. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the beef, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Incorporate diced tomatoes, ketchup, tomato paste, and beef broth into the meat mixture, stirring to combine and create a rich, robust sauce.
5. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and Worcestershire sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together for 2-3 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente, then drain thoroughly.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the beef sauce, mixing gently to ensure even coating.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. Generously top the pasta with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, covering the entire surface.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and develops a golden, bubbly crust.
11. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and flavors to intensify.

Notes

• Choose lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce excess grease and create a healthier version of the dish.
• Customize the pasta by substituting whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions.
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutritional value and create more depth of flavor.
• For a lower-carb option, replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to make the dish more diet-friendly.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg