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This cheesy bacon cheeseburger pasta is a weeknight winner that always gets rave reviews at my table. Rich ground beef, crisp bacon, and tender pasta all come together in a creamy sauce for serious comfort food vibes without any fuss. Imagine your favorite burger flavors in a bowl full of creamy noodles.
This was a last minute creation when I wanted something hearty but was out of burger buns. It instantly became a favorite with my family asking for it again the very next week.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: brings that essential meaty bite so try to find beef with a bit of fat for flavor
- Rotini or penne pasta: soaks up every bit of sauce I love using shapes with nooks so the cheese gets trapped
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts creamy and sharp for that iconic cheeseburger finish go for extra sharp cheddar from the block for best flavor and meltability
- Bacon: adds smoky crunch so be sure to use real bacon with crispy edges
- Whole milk: forms the base of the sauce and makes everything luscious and rich
- Plain flour: thickens the sauce without making it heavy choose unbleached flour for a more natural taste
- Ketchup: provides sweet tang that ties everything together
- Worcestershire sauce: deepens the savory notes and gives umami lift look for one with anchovies for classic flavor
- Salt: enhances flavors and rounds out the sauce
- Freshly ground black pepper: adds subtle heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat using a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Brown it evenly and be sure to drain away any excess fat since too much grease will make the sauce too heavy.
- Add the Flour:
- Sprinkle the flour over the browned beef. Stir the mixture continuously until all the meat is coated and the flour loses its raw taste. This takes about two minutes and helps thicken the sauce later.
- Make the Sauce:
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking. This helps avoid any lumps so take your time to get a smooth sauce. Keep the heat at medium and keep stirring.
- Season the Base:
- Mix in the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let everything bubble gently for about two to three minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Combine Pasta and Toppings:
- Fold in the cooked pasta bacon crumbles and shredded cheddar cheese. Gently mix until the cheese fully melts and the sauce clings to the pasta and beef.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Dish up the hot pasta in bowls. For extra indulgence sprinkle with more shredded cheese or bacon on top.
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Every time I add sharp cheddar the sauce gets this tangy richness that takes the whole dish up a notch. I remember my kids licking their bowls clean and begging for seconds the first time I made this after soccer practice.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and bring back the creaminess. The flavors get even better overnight.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version. Use any short pasta shapes you like such as macaroni or fusilli. Smoked gouda or pepper jack can replace cheddar for a twist. Swap the bacon for turkey bacon if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a simple green salad for balance or add a side of steamed broccoli. A pickle spear or extra squirt of ketchup on top makes it feel even more like the real cheeseburger experience. Kids love it with a handful of crispy onions on top.
A Bit of Burger Inspiration
This fun mashup is pure American comfort food pulling inspiration from classic cheeseburger flavors. I first made this on a cold night when everyone wanted burgers but I only had pasta and bacon. Now it feels like an old-school diner meal right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Rotini or penne pasta work best as their shape holds the sauce, but you can use any short pasta of your choice.
- → Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, you can use smoked cheddar, Colby, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- → How can I make the dish healthier?
Consider using lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and whole-grain pasta for a lighter version.
- → What can I use instead of bacon?
If you'd prefer to skip bacon, you can substitute it with turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a beef-focused dish.
- → Can I make this dish in advance?
While it's best served fresh, you can cook and store the components separately. Combine and reheat just before serving for freshness.