A plate of spaghetti with ground meat sauce, topped with shredded cheddar cheese.

Sloppy cheeseburger pasta​

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Introduction

Sloppy cheeseburger pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together two classic favorites: the rich, savory flavors of a cheeseburger and the hearty, satisfying texture of pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Packed with ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and tender pasta, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up in under 30 minutes.

If you enjoy hearty dishes like this one, you might also like our Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole for a twist on classic cheeseburger flavors.

Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your next go-to dinner favorite and how to make it step-by-step!

Why You’ll Love This Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

It’s Quick and Easy

This one-pot wonder takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish. Minimal prep time and simple ingredients make it a great choice for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.

Family-Friendly

Sloppy cheeseburger pasta is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s cheesy, savory, and satisfying, with flavors everyone can agree on.

Budget-Friendly Ingredients

The recipe uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and cheese. You’ll likely already have most of these items in your kitchen!

Customizable

You can easily adapt this dish to suit dietary preferences, spice levels, or ingredient availability. Keep it simple, or add your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor.

Key Ingredients for Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Ground Beef

Ground beef is the foundation of this dish, providing a hearty, protein-packed base. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

For a similar hearty dish, explore our Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup for another comforting recipe idea.

Pasta

Choose a short pasta like elbow macaroni, penne, or shells to soak up all the delicious cheeseburger-flavored sauce. Gluten-free pasta also works well if needed.

Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar cheese gives this dish its signature cheeseburger taste. For an extra creamy texture, mix in some shredded mozzarella or American cheese.

Tomato Sauce and Ketchup

These ingredients create a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that mimics the flavors of a classic burger. You can substitute tomato sauce with marinara or add a little mustard for extra zing.

Seasonings

Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper enhance the cheeseburger flavor. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.

Milk and Cream

These add creaminess to the sauce, making it rich and indulgent. Use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like oat milk if needed.

Optional Add-Ins

  • Pickles: Chopped dill pickles for a tangy kick.
  • Onions: Diced onions sautéed with the ground beef add sweetness and depth.
  • Vegetables: Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make sloppy cheeseburger pasta:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or shells)
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup water or beef broth (for cooking the pasta)
  • Optional toppings: diced pickles, fresh parsley, or shredded lettuce
A generous serving of spaghetti topped with crumbled ground meat and melted cheddar cheese.
Spaghetti topped with savory ground meat and melted cheddar cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Cook the Pasta

  1. Prepare the Pot: Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt to season the pasta as it cooks. This step enhances the flavor of the pasta.
  2. Cook to Al Dente: Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente (firm to the bite), as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
    • Pro Tip: Save ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be used later to adjust the sauce consistency.
  3. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta in a colander and drizzle it lightly with olive oil to prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.

Brown the Ground Beef

  1. Preheat the Pot: In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Use the same pot to minimize dishes and retain some of the pasta flavor.
  2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up into small crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
  3. Drain Grease: If the beef releases a lot of grease, carefully drain the excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce. If you’re using lean ground beef or turkey, you may not need to drain it.
    • Optional Add-Ins: If using diced onions or garlic, sauté them with the beef during this step for extra flavor.

Add Seasonings and Sauce

  1. Season the Meat: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper over the browned beef. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
    • Pro Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. You can add more garlic powder or paprika based on your flavor preference.
  2. Add Tomato Sauce and Ketchup: Pour in the tomato sauce and ketchup. Stir to combine the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the beef is fully coated in the sauce.
    • If you like a tangier flavor, you can add a small splash of mustard or Worcestershire sauce at this stage.

Simmer the Sauce

  1. Simmer for Flavor: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5–7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and savory base.
    • Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Add Milk and Cheese

  1. Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in the milk while stirring. This helps prevent curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
  2. Melt the Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese in small handfuls, stirring constantly to help it melt evenly.
    • Pro Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best results, as pre-shredded cheese can have anti-caking agents that affect the texture of the sauce.

Combine with Pasta

  1. Add the Pasta: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheesy sauce, ensuring every piece is coated in the rich, creamy mixture.
    • If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more milk to thin it out.
  2. Heat Through: Let the pasta simmer for 2–3 minutes in the sauce, allowing it to soak up the flavors.

Garnish and Serve

  1. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness. Garnish with diced pickles, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.
  2. Serve Hot: Dish up the sloppy cheeseburger pasta while it’s still warm and gooey. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Variations for Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Make It Healthier

  • Swap regular pasta for whole-grain or gluten-free pasta.
  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Add extra vegetables like diced zucchini, spinach, or carrots for more nutrients.

Spice It Up

  • Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
  • Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier twist.

Switch Up the Cheese

  • Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.

Dairy-Free Version

  • Use a plant-based milk alternative and dairy-free shredded cheese to make the recipe vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions for Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

  • Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
  • Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with the creamy pasta.

Tips for the Best Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce. Shredding your cheese fresh will result in a smoother, creamier dish.

Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it won’t become mushy when combined with the sauce.

Adjust the Sauce Consistency

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to thicken.

Make It Ahead

Sloppy cheeseburger pasta reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Benefits of This Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

  • Simplicity: Perfect for beginners and busy cooks.
  • Versatility: Customizable to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Combines two universally loved dishes—cheeseburgers and pasta.

FAQS

What meat is good with pasta?

Best Meats to Pair with Pasta
  1. Chicken
    • Grilled, roasted, or pan-seared chicken works well with many pasta dishes, especially creamy or tomato-based sauces.
    • Chicken Alfredo or chicken marinara are popular choices.
  2. Beef
    • Ground beef is ideal for Bolognese sauces or lasagna.
    • Sliced steak pairs wonderfully with hearty pasta dishes like penne or rigatoni.
  3. Seafood
    • Shrimp is perfect with garlic butter pasta or scampi.
    • Salmon and clams also complement light sauces like lemon or white wine.
  4. Sausage
    • Italian sausage (mild or spicy) pairs well with penne or spaghetti in tomato-based sauces.
    • Sausage crumbles add depth to baked ziti.
  5. Pork
    • Pancetta and prosciutto work well in carbonara or creamy sauces.
    • Pulled pork can add a twist to barbecue-inspired pasta.

How to spice up Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni?

Add Extra Flavorful Ingredients
  1. Vegetables
    • Sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance the flavor and texture.
  2. Seasonings and Spices
    • Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, or chili flakes to boost the taste.
    • For a smoky flavor, try smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
  3. Cheese Upgrades
    • Mix in shredded cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for a creamier, richer taste.
    • Sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil for a baked version.
  4. Protein Enhancements
    • Cook bacon bits, ground turkey, or sausage with the ground beef for extra protein.
    • Add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
  5. Toppings and Garnishes
    • Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
    • Crushed tortilla chips or fried onions add crunch.

Why is a cheeseburger called a cheeseburger?

Origins of the Cheeseburger Name
  • The term “cheeseburger” comes from the combination of a hamburger patty and cheese. The prefix “cheese” was added to distinguish it from the plain hamburger.
  • Cheese, typically a slice of American, cheddar, or Swiss, is melted on top of the beef patty, creating the signature dish.
  • The cheeseburger was invented in the 1920s or 1930s, with several claims to its origin, including a 1928 menu in Los Angeles featuring the “cheese hamburger.”

How many calories are in cheeseburger pasta?

Calorie Breakdown of Cheeseburger Pasta

The calorie content of cheeseburger pasta depends on the recipe and portion size. Here’s a general guide:

  1. Homemade Cheeseburger Pasta (1 cup)
    • Ground beef (80% lean), pasta, cheese, and sauce contribute approximately 400–600 calories.
    • Using lean beef or whole wheat pasta can reduce calories slightly.
  2. Boxed Cheeseburger Pasta (like Hamburger Helper)
    • One serving (about 1 cup prepared) contains 300–400 calories, depending on the specific product and added ingredients (like milk and butter).
  3. Baked Cheeseburger Pasta with Toppings
    • Additions like extra cheese or breadcrumbs can raise the calorie count to 500–700 calories per cup.

Do Italians eat pasta with meat?

Italian Traditions with Pasta and Meat
  1. Meat as a Side Dish
    • In traditional Italian meals, pasta is served as a first course (primo) and is rarely mixed with large chunks of meat.
    • Meat is usually served as a separate main course (secondo).
  2. Pasta with Meat Sauces
    • Italians enjoy pasta with meat-based sauces like Bolognese or ragù, which contain ground beef or pork cooked into the sauce.
    • Meatballs (polpette) are typically served as a separate dish and not mixed with spaghetti.
  3. Regional Variations
    • In Southern Italy, seafood like shrimp or clams is commonly paired with pasta.
    • Northern regions feature dishes like beef or veal-stuffed ravioli.

What meat goes with Alfredo sauce?

Best Meats for Alfredo Sauce
  1. Chicken
    • Grilled or pan-seared chicken is the most popular pairing for creamy Alfredo sauce.
  2. Shrimp
    • Shrimp Alfredo is a classic combination, as the seafood pairs perfectly with the rich, buttery sauce.
  3. Salmon
    • Grilled or baked salmon adds a luxurious, smoky flavor to Alfredo dishes.
  4. Sausage
    • Sliced Italian sausage or turkey sausage works well for a flavorful twist.
  5. Pancetta or Bacon
    • Crispy pancetta or bacon adds a salty, savory element to the creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Sloppy cheeseburger pasta is a quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just indulging in some comfort food, this recipe checks all the boxes.

If you’re looking for more comfort food ideas, don’t forget to check out our Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole for another creative twist on a classic.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results! Snap a picture, tag your friends, or leave a comment below to let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking!

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