Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

If you are searching for the ultimate comfort meal that channels all the flavors of a loaded bacon cheeseburger but comes together in one cozy pan this pasta is just the thing Each bite gives you savory beef creamy cheese crispy bacon and classic burger fixings wrapped up with tender noodles

I first made this for a last minute weeknight dinner when I only had burger staples and pasta in my pantry It was so popular my family requests it every few weeks and we all love jazzing up our servings with extra crispy bacon

Ingredients

• Ground beef: this provides rich flavor and satisfying protein Use eighty five percent lean for the best balance of flavor and little grease
• Pasta: either rotini or penne holds up well to saucy mixtures Cook just until al dente for perfect texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: this melts beautifully and gives that classic cheeseburger taste Look for sharp cheddar for extra flavor or try a blend for a twist
• Cooked bacon: adds smoky savory crunch Select thick cut bacon for big bites and bake or pan fry for crispness
• Milk: creates the creaminess in your sauce Whole milk adds extra richness but low fat also works
• Flour: helps the sauce thicken and cling to the noodles Sift before using to prevent lumps
• Ketchup: brings tang and that burger essence Any favorite ketchup will do
• Worcestershire sauce: deepens umami and brings out savory notes A little goes a long way
• Salt and pepper: season to taste and bring out the best in every ingredient Opt for fresh cracked pepper if possible

Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat Add ground beef and cook for about eight minutes breaking it up with a spatula as it browns You want it fully cooked through with no pink remaining Drain off any excess fat for the creamiest final sauce

Make the Sauce Base:

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the browned beef Stir constantly so the flour coats the meat and absorbs fat Then begin whisking in the milk a little at a time scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan Keep whisking until the mixture turns smooth and starts to thicken forming a creamy sauce base

Add Burger Flavors:

Stir in the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce now Season with salt and pepper to your liking Let this mixture simmer gently for two to three minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens further

Finish With Pasta Cheese and Bacon:

Fold in your cooked pasta crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese Stir until every noodle is coated and the cheese is thoroughly melted The dish should look creamy and feel thick and satisfying

Serve and Top:

Dish out right away for the gooey comfort factor Thank yourself for making it extra special with a sprinkle of more cheese or a final shower of bacon bits

My favorite part is the cheddar cheese I have memories of grating a fresh block with my kids and there was always a race to sneak a handful before it hit the pan It brings so much melt and comfort to the dish

Storage tips

Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk to revive the sauce If freezing divide into single portions and wrap tightly This makes for an amazing grab and go freezer meal

Ingredient substitutions

Ground turkey can stand in for beef if you want it lighter Any short pasta such as fusilli or elbows will do Try pepper jack or Swiss cheese for a fun flavor upgrade If you are out of Worcestershire a dash of soy sauce brings umami too

Serving suggestions

Pile the pasta into a big bowl and serve with crunchy pickles crisp salad or oven fries For a party try topping each bowl with sliced green onions or a drizzle of burger sauce

Cultural roots

Loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta is the kind of playful American food that turns classic drive in flavors into cozy comfort at home It is inspired by all the best elements of a backyard cookout but reimagined for the stove

Seasonal notes

In winter use hearty pasta shapes and serve piping hot In summer lighten it up with chopped tomatoes or serve as a side at a barbecue Leftover grilled bacon or cheese from a cookout can easily find a home here

Helpful recipe notes

Let the cheese melt off heat for a super gooey texture Do not skimp the simmer time for a thick creamy sauce Crispy bacon bits make the best topping for crunch

Success Stories

Friends have doubled this recipe for rowdy game nights and it was cleared out in minutes My sister always brings it to potlucks and even picky eaters come back for seconds It is a crowd pleaser every time

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let the dish cool completely then scoop into freezer safe containers Label with the date Reheat straight from frozen in a saucepan with a splash of extra milk It saves so well and makes a midday meal feel special upon reheating

This pasta brings everyone to the table for comfort and flavor It tastes just as amazing reheated for a quick lunch the next day

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best?

Short, sturdy pasta like rotini or penne holds the sauce and bacon well, providing great texture and flavor in each bite.

→ How do you get a creamy sauce?

Sprinkling flour into browned beef then gradually whisking in milk creates a creamy, thick base for the sauce.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or Colby can add a milder, creamy twist to the dish.

→ Is it possible to make ahead?

Yes, assemble everything and reheat gently with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture before serving.

→ What toppings can I add?

Extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or fresh chives give extra flavor and visual appeal to the finished dish.