Can I make sloppy joe pasta without meat?

Yes! For a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat, lentils, or tempeh. This sloppy joe pasta no meat option cooks in the same crockpot method and works perfectly for a family-friendly, easy sloppy joe pasta dinner.

What’s the easiest way to make crockpot sloppy joes into pasta?

Combine browned ground beef, canned sloppy joe sauce, and seasonings in the crockpot. Add pasta and cheese toward the end to create a cheesy sloppy joe pasta bake or sloppy joe spaghetti recipe with minimal effort.

Can I use canned sauce for sloppy joe pasta?

Absolutely! Using canned sloppy joe sauce simplifies preparation and delivers consistent flavor. This makes sloppy joe pasta with canned sauce quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight meals.

How do I store or reheat leftover sloppy joe pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk for creamy, cheesy sloppy joe pasta that tastes freshly made.

Crockpot Ground Beef Sloppy Joe Pasta – Easy Family Dinner 2026

Description

A comforting, cheesy, and hearty pasta dish made with ground beef and classic sloppy joe sauce, all cooked effortlessly in the crockpot. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish combines tender pasta, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese for an easy family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (serves 6–8):

For the Crockpot Sloppy Joe Base:

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce or 1 cup canned sloppy joe sauce
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup milk (optional for creaminess)

Optional Toppings:

Extra shredded cheese
Chopped parsley
Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for crunch

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Assemble in Crockpot
Add the cooked beef mixture to the crockpot. Stir in tomato sauce (or canned sloppy joe sauce), ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Cheese
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked pasta, milk (if using), and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Cover and cook until pasta is tender, about 20–30 minutes.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Top with extra cheese, parsley, or breadcrumbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy a cheesy, comforting sloppy joe pasta dinner!

Notes

Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for lentils, tempeh, or plant-based crumbles.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk.
Make Ahead: Prepare base in the crockpot earlier in the day; add pasta and cheese closer to mealtime.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in cream cheese or mozzarella for extra creamy texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours (low) / 2–3 hours (high)
Category: Main Course / Pasta
Method: Crockpot / Slow Cooked
Cuisine: American