Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Dish

This sloppy cheeseburger pasta casserole brings together everything I love about comfort food—savory seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and tender pasta—all baked into a crowd-pleasing dish that never fails to put smiles around the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a nostalgic meal that hits every craving

I whipped up this casserole on a hectic Tuesday when my pantry was nearly bare and immediately knew it would become our go to on cold nights It is pure cheesy bliss in every bite

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Rich and beefy flavor Use freshly ground beef with a bit of fat for juiciness
• Roasted garlic cream of mushroom soup: Deep savory flavor with gentle garlic undertones Select quality soup for the creamiest sauce
• Processed cheese Mexican style: Melts easily for that signature creamy, stretchy finish Opt for a real cheese block and cube for even melting
• Pasta shells: Catch all the saucy goodness Choose medium shells and cook to just the right tenderness for best texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat letting it develop a deep brown color for rich flavor Make sure there is no pink left and take several minutes to really build that meaty base If there’s a lot of excess fat carefully drain it away

Combine with Soup:

Return the drained beef to the skillet and spoon in the cream of mushroom soup Stir thoroughly so every bit of beef is coated You are not adding milk or water here since you want an extra creamy sauce

Melt the Cheese:

Place the skillet back on medium heat Add cheese cubes a handful at a time stir gently and patiently as each melts before adding more Continue until the cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce is glossy and smooth This technique ensures lump free results

Mix in the Pasta:

Add the drained cooked pasta shells right into the skillet Gently fold everything together so all the pasta gets covered in sauce Try not to break the shells to keep a great texture

Serve:

Dish out the casserole while it’s still hot and serve immediately Spoon those cheesy beefy shells straight from the skillet for ultimate coziness

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Storage Tips

If you have leftovers store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat simply pop in the microwave or bake gently until warm stirring in a splash of milk if the sauce gets too thick This casserole also freezes pretty well just expect the sauce texture to change slightly

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you like a lighter version No Mexican style cheese no problem any melty processed cheese will do In a pinch use regular cream of mushroom soup and stir in a pinch of garlic powder

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or simple steamed broccoli for balance I also like to add a few dashes of hot sauce for grown up spice Pile leftovers onto burger buns for a fun lunch

Cultural and Historical Context

This recipe is inspired by classic American casseroles and the timeless flavors of a cheeseburger The use of processed cheese was a staple in many midwestern family kitchens especially for quick all in one meals like this It is nostalgia on a plate

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Mexican-style processed cheese with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend of your choice. Keep in mind that processed cheese melts smoothly for a creamy texture.

→ What pasta shape works best for this dish?

Pasta shells are recommended for this dish as they hold the sauce well, but you can also use penne, rigatoni, or other short pasta shapes.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Cook the beef and sauce, then store separately from the cooked pasta. Combine and heat before serving for the best texture.

→ How can I make this dish less salty?

Use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and unsalted processed cheese to reduce the salt content. Adjust seasoning as needed after cooking.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or peas can be added to the beef and sauce mixture for extra flavour and nutrition.

→ What are tips for reheating leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or drying out.