Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta

Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta is everything you love about a diner classic—ground beef, tangy ketchup, gooey cheese, and pasta—baked into a family friendly, ultra comforting dinner. This dish takes the spirit of cheeseburgers and transforms it into a cozy casserole style bake, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd pleaser. Every bite is satisfyingly cheesy and savory, with just enough tang to keep it irresistible.

The first time I made this, I was craving both a cheeseburger and something cozy for a chilly night. Now it is my go to when our family wants comfort food that is easy to assemble and tastes like an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

• Pasta such as penne or macaroni: Choose sturdy shapes that hold up well with sauce and cheese
• Ground beef: Go for eighty five percent lean for a little fat to boost flavor without too much grease
• Onion: Sweet yellow works well for bringing out that classic cheeseburger flavor
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and a mellow kick
• Ketchup: Provides the signature tang and slight sweetness that makes the dish taste like cheeseburgers
• Mustard: Gives a zippy counterpoint to the ketchup If you like extra tang try a good yellow or Dijon
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for stronger, cheesier taste
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly for ultimate gooey factor
• Heavy cream: Makes the cheese sauce rich and silky Stick with real cream for best results
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning but essential for balancing flavors Taste as you go
• Olive oil: For sautéing and bringing the aromatics to life Use a fruity extra virgin olive oil for extra flavor
• Optional toppings: chopped pickles for a touch of crunch and acidity turkey bacon bits for a smoky note or more shredded cheese for extra decadence Look for crisp pickles and real crumbled bacon to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Cook the pasta until just al dente so it will not get mushy after baking Drain very well and set aside

Prepare the Beef Mixture:

In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium heat Add diced onion and sauté until translucent about four minutes Next add minced garlic and cook for a minute or until fragrant Stir in the ground beef breaking it up and letting it brown until fully cooked Season with salt and pepper and drain any excess fat

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a medium saucepan warm the heavy cream gently over medium heat When it is steaming but not boiling add the cheddar and mozzarella Whisk constantly until creamy and fully melted Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Coat a large baking dish with oil so nothing sticks

Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl stir together the cooked pasta beef mixture ketchup mustard and cheese sauce Toss everything well so each piece of pasta gets coated in the sauce

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish Top with extra cheese pickles or turkey bacon bits if you like Bake uncovered for twenty minutes until the cheese on top melts and becomes bubbly and golden

Serve:

Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for five minutes before scooping This helps it hold together and lets the flavors meld Serve warm and savor every cheesy forkful

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Cheddar is hands down my favorite part of this meal Nothing beats the rich melt and sharp taste that makes the casserole taste like the best burger joint cheeseburger We once made this for my nephew’s birthday party complete with pickle crowns on each piece and it totally stole the show

Storage Tips

This pasta bake stays delicious for up to three days covered in the fridge For best results reheat gently in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees Use a splash of milk or cream when reheating if the sauce needs loosening This dish also freezes beautifully Simply portion into airtight containers cool completely and freeze for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter protein feel free to use plant based ground for a vegetarian version Swap gluten free pasta or whole wheat shapes if you need For cheeses a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack gives an even bigger flavor boost

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or simple roasted veggies A cold glass of lemonade or sweet tea rounds out the meal For a fun touch set out bowls of extra toppings like more pickles crumbled bacon or hot sauce for everyone to customize their servings

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Once you try this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta you will see why it is a constant request in our house Each bite brings a little cheesy happiness and a ton of comfort that evenings around the table are all about

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta such as penne, macaroni, or rotini works well and holds the sauce.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

You can assemble the pasta up to a day ahead and bake just before serving.

→ What cheese alternatives work best?

Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for different flavor profiles.

→ How do I add more vegetables?

Mix in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.

→ Is there a way to make it lighter?

Use ground turkey or chicken and substitute light cream or milk for the heavy cream.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of cream if it seems dry.