Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Imagine all the deliciousness of a bacon cheeseburger, but in a comforting pasta dish. The Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta takes your favorite burger ingredients and transforms them into a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s packed with flavor. It’s a delightful twist on a classic that will have your family coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

This dish combines tender ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese with perfectly cooked pasta. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner with friends. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can easily customize it with different types of cheese, add in some veggies for extra nutrition, or even spice it up with some jalapeños. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for a delicious homemade dinner. Get ready to enjoy a comforting, cheesy dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

---

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
• For Garnish:
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Additional crumbled bacon (optional)
  • Extra shredded cheese (optional)

---

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Bacon and Beef:
   • In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
   • Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels.
   • In the same skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, then drain any excess fat.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • To the cooked beef, add the drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and heavy cream.
   • Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Let it cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
   • Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
   • Stir in the crumbled bacon, reserving a bit for garnish if desired.
   • Once everything is well combined, remove from heat.
   • Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley, extra bacon, and a sprinkle of cheese if desired.

---

How to Prepare:

• Bacon: Start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy, as this adds a delightful crunch to the dish. Be sure to cook it in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once the bacon is done, set it aside on paper towels to drain excess grease.
• Ground Beef: Use a lean ground beef for this recipe to reduce the amount of fat in the dish. Brown the beef thoroughly, making sure to break it into small pieces as it cooks. This ensures that every bite is full of meaty goodness.
• Pasta: Choose a sturdy pasta like penne or fusilli that can hold up to the rich, creamy sauce. Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce and become more tender.
• Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a velvety texture that clings to the pasta. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.

---

Preparation Time:

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

---

Servings:

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

---

FAQs:

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta? A1: Absolutely! While penne or fusilli are recommended, any pasta that holds sauce well, like rigatoni or farfalle, will work perfectly.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A2: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of combining the pasta with the sauce. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.

Q3: What other cheeses can I use? A3: You can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda to give the dish a different flavor.

Q4: Is there a way to make this dish lighter? A4: For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon and ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Additionally, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream option.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to this dish? A5: Yes! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can enhance the nutritional value and add more texture to the dish.

---

Conclusion:

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with the satisfying warmth of a pasta dish. This recipe is easy to make, yet delivers a complex, hearty meal that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility—whether you’re customizing it with different cheeses, adding vegetables for a health boost, or making it ahead for a stress-free meal, it’s a recipe that adapts to your needs. The creamy, cheesy sauce clings to each bite of pasta, while the crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch, creating a dish that’s indulgent yet comforting.

So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is more than just a dinner; it’s an experience that brings together the best of two beloved comfort foods. Enjoy every bite!

Print