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Cheesy Spaghetti Sloppy Joes

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A playful mash-up of sloppy joes and cheesy pasta, this dish features spaghetti tossed with savory, sweet beef sauce and melted cheddar. It’s bold, comforting, and kid-friendly.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder or paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
  3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, then drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar (if using), chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
  5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the mixture.
  6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top. Cover skillet for 1–2 minutes until cheese melts. Stir gently for an even cheesy mix.
  7. Serve hot, topped with extra cheese or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
  • Try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for variety.
  • Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for nutrition.
  • Mix in BBQ sauce or vinegar for a tangy twist.
  • Serve with garlic bread or a green salad for a full meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/cheesy-spaghetti-sloppy-joes/