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Sloppy Joe Mac and Cheese

A decadent combination of Sloppy Joes and mac and cheese that’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • ¾ cup tomato sauce Provides the foundation of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste Enhances the tomato essence.
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce Adds umami flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar Rounds out the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt Accentuates the flavors.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper Adds mild heat.
For the pasta and meat
  • 2 cups rotini or any spiral-shaped pasta Helps to hold onto the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil For sautéing the veggies.
  • ½ large onion (diced) Adds sweetness and aroma.
  • 1 medium green bell pepper (diced) Adds crunch and earthiness.
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) Enhances flavor.
  • ½ pound ground beef Provides protein and richness.
  • 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese For creaminess and indulgence.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to the package directions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain well in a colander and set aside.
  2. In the meantime, prepare the sauce by whisking together the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dark brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Set this mixture aside.
Cooking
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they become fragrant and tender.
  2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, cooking until it's completely browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the sauce mixture prepared earlier. Add the cooked rotini into the skillet and mix everything together.
  4. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir gently until the cheese has melted and everything is well-coated.
  5. Divide the Sloppy Joe Mac and Cheese into bowls and serve immediately.

Notes

Consider adding smoked paprika or hot sauce for extra flavor. You can also throw in diced mushrooms or zucchini for added vegetables. This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings.