Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

The Ultimate Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights

Loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta emerges as a mouthwatering twist on classic diner flavors that promise pure culinary comfort.

Our kitchen adventure blends familiar burger ingredients into a creamy, cheese-laden pasta experience.

Crispy bacon bits and seasoned ground beef create a robust foundation for this indulgent dish.

Melted cheese weaves through each pasta strand, delivering an irresistible richness that screams hearty satisfaction.

Sharp cheddar and tangy condiments dance together, mimicking the essence of a perfect cheeseburger.

comfort food enthusiasts will appreciate how quickly this one-pan wonder comes together for a weeknight feast.

You cannot resist diving into this decadent pasta that transforms simple ingredients into an epic meal.

What’s Cheesy and Comforting About This Bacon Pasta

  • Quick Weeknight Savior: Whip up this hearty pasta in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving a delicious meal without hours of prep.
  • Flavor Explosion: Packed with crispy bacon, juicy ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and melted cheese, this dish delivers maximum taste in every single bite.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Appeals to both kids and adults with its familiar cheeseburger-inspired flavors and irresistible cheesy texture that guarantees clean plates.
  • One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal dishes and simple cooking technique make cleanup a breeze, allowing more time to enjoy a satisfying family dinner without kitchen stress.

Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Pasta:
  • Pasta: Base of the dish that absorbs all the delicious flavors, choose short pasta like rotini or penne for best texture.
Meat:
  • Ground Beef, Bacon: Protein-packed ingredients that add rich, savory taste and satisfying meaty texture.
Cheese:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Creamy and tangy cheese that creates a smooth, rich sauce, sharp varieties work best.
Sauce and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and slight acidity to the dish.
  • Tomato Sauce: Provides deep tomato flavor and helps bind ingredients.
  • Beef Broth: Adds depth and richness to the overall taste.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Brings complex umami flavor.
  • Mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the sauce.
  • Smoked Paprika: Provides a smoky undertone.
Aromatics and Dairy:
  • Onion: Builds foundational flavor for the base.
  • Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
  • Butter: Creates smooth texture in cheese sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Helps create silky cheese sauce.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced flavor.
Optional Garnish:
  • Parsley, Green Onions: Fresh herbs for bright color and mild flavor.
  • Pickles: Tangy side accompaniment.

Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Comfort Food Method

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Get a large pot of water bubbling and cook your pasta until it’s perfectly tender.

Drain the water and set the pasta aside, ready for its flavor adventure.

Step 2: Crisp Up Bacon

Grab a big skillet and transform those bacon strips into crunchy, golden delights.

Once they’re crispy, pull them out, crumble them into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.

Keep a splash of that magical bacon grease in the pan.

Step 3: Brown Ground Beef

In the same skillet, toss in:
  • Ground beef
  • Chopped onions

Cook over medium heat until the beef turns a beautiful brown color.

Throw in minced garlic and let it dance around for another minute.

Drain any extra grease to keep things light.

Step 4: Build Flavor Foundation

Stir in a flavor-packed mix of:
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Tomato sauce
  • Beef broth
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Mustard
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Smoked paprika

Let everything simmer and get to know each other for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan, gently warm:
  • Butter
  • Heavy cream

Slowly melt in shredded cheddar cheese until you’ve got a smooth, dreamy sauce that’ll make everyone swoon.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Combine your cooked pasta, that heavenly cheese sauce, and crispy bacon bits in the skillet.

Stir everything until it’s heated through and looking irresistible.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle some extra cheese on top, add a few green herbs for color, and serve this comfort food masterpiece.

Grab some pickles on the side if you’re feeling extra fancy!

Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Cheesy Tips

  • Cook bacon slowly over medium-low heat to ensure even, perfectly crispy texture without burning.
  • Drain excess beef and bacon grease to prevent a greasy dish and maintain a clean, appetizing flavor profile.
  • Melt cheese over low heat and stir constantly to prevent clumping and achieve a silky, creamy consistency.
  • Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carbohydrate version that keeps the delicious flavor intact.
  • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions just before serving to add brightness and a pop of fresh flavor to the rich dish.

Cheeseburger Pasta That Reheats Cheesy and Rich

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, the pasta will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring minimal air exposure to prevent freezer burn.
  • Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  • Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

Easy Add-Ons for Cheeseburger Pasta

  • Pair with Zesty Pickle Martini: Craft a signature cocktail that echoes the burger's tangy pickle notes, using vodka, pickle juice, and a dill garnish for a playful twist.
  • Complement with Crisp Craft Beer: Select a hoppy IPA or amber ale that cuts through the rich, cheesy pasta, balancing its creamy texture with a refreshing bitter edge.
  • Match with Bright Coleslaw Side: Prepare a vinegar-based coleslaw that provides a crunchy, acidic counterpoint to the heavy, meaty pasta dish, cleansing the palate between bites.
  • Enhance with Red Wine Reduction: Serve a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec that has been reduced with beef broth and herbs, creating a sophisticated sauce that amplifies the dish's deep, savory flavors.

Different Ways To Make Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce for a celiac-safe version.
  • Low-Carb Keto Option: Swap pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the rich, savory flavors.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use turkey bacon or mushroom bacon for a meat-alternative protein boost.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese shreds and coconut cream instead of heavy cream to create a creamy sauce that accommodates lactose-intolerant individuals.

FAQs

  • What makes this pasta different from traditional pasta dishes?

This loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with pasta, creating a unique comfort food experience that merges two beloved dishes into one delicious meal.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare this pasta ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

  • Can I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce calories by using lean ground beef, turkey bacon, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to increase nutritional value.

  • What are the key flavor components in this dish?

The recipe features a rich blend of smoky bacon, savory ground beef, tangy Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and creamy cheese sauce that creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.

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Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Recipe


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4.7 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta delivers classic American flavors in one irresistible skillet meal. Hearty ingredients meld together, creating a crowd-pleasing dinner you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Pasta and Base:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or macaroni)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth

Sauces and Seasonings:

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce or ketchup
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream or milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Garnish:

  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
  • Pickles (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta in a pot of boiling water until al dente, following package guidelines. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
  2. Render bacon in a spacious skillet until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel, crumble into bits, and set aside. Reserve a small amount of rendered fat in the pan.
  3. Sauté ground beef and diced onions in the same skillet over medium-high heat, breaking meat into small crumbles. Mix in minced garlic and cook until beef turns completely brown.
  4. Incorporate diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Allow mixture to simmer, developing rich flavors for approximately 5 minutes.
  5. Craft cheese sauce by gently warming heavy cream and butter in a separate saucepan. Gradually whisk in shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and silky smooth.
  6. Consolidate all components by adding cooked pasta, creamy cheese sauce, and crumbled bacon into the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution and complete heating.
  7. Plate the dish, sprinkling additional cheese on top. Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions. Optional: serve with tangy pickles on the side for extra zest.

Notes

  • Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and robust flavor that adds depth to the pasta dish.
  • Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a cleaner, more balanced meal.
  • Consider using whole wheat pasta for a more nutritious version without compromising taste.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar and pepper jack for a more complex flavor profile.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
  • Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process and make the recipe more manageable.
  • Drain excess grease thoroughly to prevent the dish from becoming overly greasy or heavy.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 740
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 45g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
Katherine Pierce

Katherine Pierce

Recipe Curator & Food Educator

Expertise

  • Curating diverse recipe collections
  • Educating on global culinary traditions
  • Developing informative food content

Education

Boston University Metropolitan College
Certificate Program in the Culinary Arts
Focus: French and international cuisine techniques, Hands-on culinary training with industry professionals, Food industry insights and operations


Katherine grew up believing every dish has a story. She studied the art of food at Boston University and explored the history behind it. She loves pulling easy recipes from every corner of the world and putting them at your fingertips.
When Katherine’s not writing or testing new flavors, she’s teaching cooking classes, baking colorful mooncakes, or dreaming up new ways to mix old favorites with new twists.

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