Juicy ground beef, smoky bacon, cheddar cheese, and tender pasta tossed in a savory sauce—your new favorite weeknight comfort meal!
Servings and Timing:
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Dietary: Family-friendly, High-protein
Ingredients:
Ground beef
Cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked bacon, crumbled
Milk
Flour
Ketchup
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
Sprinkle flour over beef and stir well, cooking for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until a creamy sauce forms.
Add ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Mix in cooked pasta, bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Stir thoroughly until cheese melts and pasta is evenly coated.
Serve immediately, topped with additional cheese or bacon if desired.
Additional Notes:
Ideal for busy weeknight dinners.
Quick, hearty, and guaranteed family favorite.
About This Recipe
This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta combines classic cheeseburger flavors into a simple, creamy, and delicious pasta dish. It’s perfect for busy days when you want comfort food fast and will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Creamy Sauce Tip: Slowly whisk milk into the flour and beef mixture to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
Pasta: Use short, sturdy pasta types like penne or rotini to best capture sauce and toppings.
Quick Tip: Pre-cook bacon and pasta to speed up meal prep.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips
Beef: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal.
Cheese: Try pepper Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend for varied flavors.
Sauce: BBQ sauce can replace ketchup for a smokier taste.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
Add-ins: Consider diced tomatoes, green onions, or pickles for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Ideas: Pair with garlic bread, steamed veggies, or a simple green salad.
Drink Pairing: Enjoy alongside iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp lager.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave until hot.
Make-Ahead: Sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; combine with pasta and cheese fresh when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 590 kcal
Protein: 33g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 32g
Dietary Highlights: High-protein, satisfying comfort dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute regular pasta and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
Q: Is it okay to use leftover hamburger patties?
A: Yes! Simply crumble and heat thoroughly before mixing into sauce.
Q: Can I freeze this pasta dish?
A: Yes, freeze portions for up to 2 months and reheat gently, adding extra milk if needed to refresh sauce.