Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

If you’re in the mood for a cozy, all-in-one dinner that checks every comfort food box, this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is your new weeknight lifesaver. Think of it as everything you crave in a juicy cheeseburger—savory ground beef, sharp mustard, gooey melted cheese—swirled together with tender pasta in one glorious pot. It’s filling, it’s tasty, and best of all? It’s on the table in around 30 minutes. That means more time to relax, less time scrubbing dishes.

This is the kind of recipe that’s made for hectic evenings when you need something warm and homemade but don’t want to be elbow-deep in cookware. It’s a family pleaser through and through—kids will ask for it again and again, and adults will totally be on board too.

No need for anything fancy here either, just a handful of basics from your pantry and a little kitchen love. Whether you’re feeding a full table or stocking up on leftovers that reheat beautifully, this dish delivers. Pasta night just got a whole lot cheesier—and better.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

• One pot = fewer dishes, less cleanup
• All the cheeseburger goodness with a pasta upgrade
• A hit with kids and picky eaters alike
• Easy to tweak using what you already have
• Ready to go in roughly 30 minutes

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4–6

Kitchen Equipment:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and moisture)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or ketchup
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/4 cup diced dill pickles
• 2 tbsp cream cheese
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

How to Make Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef with Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Build the Cheeseburger Flavor

1. To the browned beef, stir in tomato sauce (or ketchup), yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend. If using, add diced pickles now for a zippy bite.

Step 3: Add Pasta & Liquids

1. Pour in beef broth and milk. Stir in uncooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

1. Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, reduce heat to low.
2. Add cream cheese (if using) and stir until melted. Then stir in cheddar and mozzarella until smooth and cheesy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Spoon into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra pickles or shredded cheese if you’re feeling fancy.

Pro Tips for the best Result

• For deeper flavor, brown the beef until the edges start to crisp slightly—this adds texture and umami.
• Warm your milk slightly before adding to prevent curdling.
• Want extra creaminess? Stir in a splash of pasta water or a bit more milk right at the end.
• Leftovers? Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat, or top with crushed potato chips for crunch—your secret twist!

Enjoy your cheesy creation!

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