Description
A hearty and comforting fusion of classic sloppy joes and creamy homemade mac and cheese, combining savory ground beef in a tangy tomato sauce with rich, cheesy pasta for the ultimate family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce or marinara
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cups elbow macaroni (or favorite pasta)
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar and mozzarella blend)
1 tsp mustard powder or Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, and cook for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese and mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, then gently fold in the sloppy joe meat mixture.
- Serve warm, or optionally top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs and broil briefly for a crispy finish.
Notes
Ground turkey or plant-based alternatives can be used for a lighter version.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
For a baked casserole version, bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 680 kcal
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
