Name: Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best); 1 lb ground beef; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon ketchup; 1 tablespoon mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste; Cooking oil (for greasing)

When you’re craving something rich, indulgent, and comforting, nothing hits the spot quite like a creamy pasta dish packed with all your favorite cheeseburger flavors. Imagine the savory goodness of a cheeseburger combined with the creamy satisfaction of a pasta dish Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta does just that! This hearty meal brings together ground beef, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and the unmistakable tang of ketchup and mustard, all wrapped in a creamy sauce. It’s a surefire way to satisfy your hunger and bring smiles to the table!

In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of making this scrumptious Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta. With its balanced flavors, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive right into the recipe!

Ingredients for Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients lined up. Here’s what you’ll need for this Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta:

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best)
1 lb ground beef
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking oil (for greasing)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

This recipe is simple to make and requires minimal prep time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find these steps easy to follow.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (penne or rotini works perfectly) and cook it according to the package directions. Once the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, drain it and set it aside. This step is quick and ensures that your pasta is ready to absorb all the delicious cheeseburger sauce!

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the pasta is cooking, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook them until crispy. Once they’re cooked to perfection, crumble them into small pieces and set aside. The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor and texture that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In the same skillet where you cooked the bacon, add the ground beef. Cook it over medium heat until the beef is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This will allow the beef to soak up all the flavors. Next, add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Now, it’s time to make the delicious, creamy sauce. To the skillet with the cooked beef, add heavy cream, beef broth, ketchup, and mustard. Stir everything together until well combined. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. The combination of beef broth, cream, ketchup, and mustard creates that familiar cheeseburger flavor with a creamy twist.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Cheese

Next, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Once the pasta is well-mixed, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheeses will melt into the sauce, creating a smooth, velvety finish. Don’t be shy with the cheese; it’s what gives this dish its irresistible creamy texture!

Step 6: Finish the Dish

At this point, add the crumbled bacon to the pasta and give it a final stir. The bacon will add an extra layer of flavor, making every bite feel like a decadent treat. Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper to your preference. This is your moment to adjust the seasoning and make the dish your own.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta onto plates and serve hot. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, when it’s still warm and cheesy. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crispy garlic bread for the perfect meal. The creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and smoky bacon will surely win everyone over.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

This dish isn’t just your average pasta—it’s an entire meal packed with all the flavors of a loaded cheeseburger, but in pasta form! Here’s why it stands out:

Comforting and Hearty: Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a lazy weeknight, this dish provides the comfort food you crave. The combination of cheese, beef, and bacon offers a satisfying meal that fills you up.
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Cheeseburger Flavor: With the tang of ketchup and mustard, plus the richness of cheddar and mozzarella, this pasta brings you all the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger, but with a creamy twist.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this dish. It’s a fun and creative way to enjoy a cheeseburger, with the added bonus of being a complete meal in one pan!

Tips for Making the Best Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Choose the Right Pasta: While penne or rotini are ideal for this recipe, you can use any pasta you prefer. Just make sure the pasta shape can hold the creamy sauce well.
Use Quality Bacon: The flavor of the bacon really shines in this dish, so opt for a high-quality bacon that crisps up nicely and adds that perfect smoky touch.
Add Some Veggies: If you want to sneak in some vegetables, try adding a handful of spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to the skillet when cooking the ground beef. It’s an easy way to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. On the other hand, if you want a lighter sauce, add a little more beef broth or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. It adds a nice kick without overpowering the flavors.

FAQ

Can I make Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook and assemble the pasta ahead of time, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or beef broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to season it well to maintain the flavor profile of the dish.

Can I freeze Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze this dish! To freeze, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

What can I serve with Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta?

This pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and comfort-filled meal that the whole family will love, look no further than Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, crispy bacon, and hearty beef, it’s the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish will be a hit every time. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food in just 30 minutes!

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your creation on social media! And for more delicious ideas, check out these other recipes you’re sure to enjoy:

Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a mouthwatering bowl of Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta! This comforting dish is a combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, ground beef, and pasta, all cooked together to create the ultimate cozy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish satisfies your cheeseburger cravings in the form of a pasta delight.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best)
1 lb ground beef
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking oil (for greasing)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, crumble them into small pieces and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef: In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it browns. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: Add the heavy cream, beef broth, ketchup, and mustard to the skillet. Stir well, then bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until coated with the sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Let them melt, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Finish the Dish: Add the crumbled bacon and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Spoon the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta onto plates and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Notes

You can swap in your favorite pasta variety (rotini, elbow macaroni, etc.) to suit your preference.
For extra flavor, try adding some chopped pickles or relish to mimic the burger flavor even more.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Pasta, Comfort Food, Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American