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One-Pot Sloppy Joe Pasta (15 Minutes)

Alright, let me tell you—this One-Pot Sloppy Joe Pasta is like the superhero of quick weeknight dinners. Imagine all the messy goodness of a sloppy joe, but transformed into a creamy, comforting pasta that’s ready before your favorite binge-watch even starts. The best part? You only use one pot, so cleanup is practically a breeze. There’s something about that tangy tomato sauce mixed with ground beef and melty cheese that just hits the spot every time. Plus, it’s perfect when you’re craving that classic, nostalgic sloppy joe vibe but want something a little cozier and saucier. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your next go-to meal—like, who knew dinner could taste so good and come together so fast?

Quick Facts

Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shapes
1 cup diced onion (about 1 medium onion)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 1/2 cups water
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed—this keeps the dish from getting greasy.

Step 2:

Add the diced onion and minced garlic right into the beef. Sauté together for 2-3 minutes until the onions get translucent and smell amazing.

Step 3:

Pour in the beef broth, water, tomato sauce, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix so the flavors start to meld.

Step 4:

Add the pasta directly into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has soaked up most of the sauce.

Step 5:

Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then stir it in until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and velvety.

Step 6:

Give it a quick taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve it up hot and watch the cheesy, saucy goodness disappear!

Variations & Tips

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra veggies.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit your dietary needs.
For extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the end for a pop of color and nutrients.
If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

How I Like to Serve It

I love serving this pasta with a crisp green salad on the side—something light and refreshing to balance the richness. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight feast, especially when fall rolls around and you want something warm and satisfying. Kids and adults both love it, making it a win for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm gently on the stove or microwave to bring back that creamy texture.

Closing: This one-pot sloppy joe pasta is pure comfort in a bowl and a total lifesaver when time’s tight but appetite is big.