Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
1. Cook the Beef and Onions:
In a large skillet or deep saucepan over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. Add the diced onion and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Cheeseburger Flavor
1. Add Worcestershire Sauce and Ketchup:
Mix in the Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, stirring until everything is well combined. These add that classic, tangy cheeseburger flavor to the dish.
2. Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes:
Add the beef broth (or water and bouillon cube) and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Add the Pasta and Cook
1. Add the Pasta:
Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
2. Simmer Until Tender:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If the mixture becomes too thick before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash more broth or water as needed.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Cream
1. Stir in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Gently fold the cheese into the pasta until it melts and creates a cheesy, creamy texture.
2. Optional – Add Heavy Cream:
For an extra creamy finish, pour in the heavy cream and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the pasta and add additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
1. Serve Warm:
Spoon the cheesy sloppy cheeseburger pasta into bowls while warm.
2. Garnish (Optional):
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast.
Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Pasta
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, American cheese, or a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: For a thicker, heartier pasta, skip the cream. For a creamier sauce, feel free to add a bit more heavy cream.
- Add Pickle Flavor: For a cheeseburger twist, add a handful of diced pickles or a drizzle of pickle juice just before serving.
Enjoy Your Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta!
This warm, cheesy dish brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy pasta form. It’s the perfect combination of tangy, savory, and cheesy, with a hint of creaminess that makes every bite melt in your mouth. Serve this on a busy weeknight or anytime you need a simple, comforting meal.