Description

Sloppy Joe Pasta is a comforting one-pot meal combining the classic flavors of sloppy joes with hearty elbow macaroni. Ground beef and onions are slowly cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce with ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, then combined with pasta and beef broth in a crockpot for a warm, flavorful dish topped with melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced

Condiments and Sauces

1 can tomato sauce (approximately 15 oz)
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Pasta and Liquids

12 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups beef broth

Cheese

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar recommended)

Instructions

Brown the beef and onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Combine ingredients in crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef and onion mixture to a crockpot. Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Add pasta and broth: Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth into the beef mixture inside the crockpot, making sure the pasta is evenly coated and submerged in the liquid.
Cook the pasta and sauce: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours. Stir occasionally during the cooking time to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking.
Add cheese topping: About 15 minutes before the end of the cooking period, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Cover again and let the cheese melt thoroughly.
Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, give the pasta a gentle stir and serve warm.

Notes

Using cheddar cheese will provide a classic flavor, but feel free to substitute with mozzarella or a cheese blend.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the beef broth slightly or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
For a healthier version, consider using lean ground beef or turkey and reduce the amount of brown sugar.
Stirring occasionally is important to prevent pasta from sticking and to ensure even cooking in the slow cooker.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Sloppy Joe Pasta, slow cooker pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, one pot meal, ground beef pasta