Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

Imagine the mouthwatering flavors of a bacon cheeseburger combined with the creamy, comforting taste of a ranch pasta bake—this is exactly what the Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Pasta Bake brings to your table. This dish is a delightful fusion of two all-time favorites: the hearty, meaty goodness of a cheeseburger and the rich, creamy allure of a baked pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both quick to prepare and loved by everyone in the family. The crispy bacon adds a smoky touch, while the ranch seasoning provides a tangy, savory kick that perfectly complements the cheesy pasta and ground beef. Whether you’re serving this dish at a casual family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for those hectic days when you still want to serve something delicious.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cheddar cheese soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
5. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, condensed cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, milk, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
6. Fold in the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon, making sure everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

How to Prepare

To prepare this delicious Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Pasta Bake, begin by cooking the pasta to al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly in the oven. While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add onions and garlic to build a flavorful base. Mixing in the ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese soup creates a creamy sauce that ties everything together. Once the pasta and bacon are folded in, and the dish is topped with cheese, it’s ready to bake to gooey perfection. The result is a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s simple yet indulgent.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Yes, feel free to use any short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni. The key is to use a pasta that can hold the sauce well.

Q2: Is there a substitute for the ranch seasoning mix?
A2: If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make your own by mixing dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! You can assemble the pasta bake, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A5: Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the skillet when cooking the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

The Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is designed to please. The combination of creamy ranch, smoky bacon, and melted cheese creates a rich, comforting meal that’s balanced by the pasta’s tender bite. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different cheeses, meats, or even added veggies, making it a great go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Serve it up with a side salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

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