Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon, crumble it, and set it aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pan for extra flavor.
Cook the Beef and Onion: In the same skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, mustard (if using), and heavy cream or milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined, and the cheese is melted and creamy.
Serve: Garnish with diced pickles, chopped parsley, or extra cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (although it’s so good, there might not be any!), Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Freezing Tip: You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
Recipe Tips & Variations
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Lighten it Up: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and swap out heavy cream for milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk.
Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic for that cheeseburger flavor, you can mix it up by using Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a bit of blue cheese for extra richness.
Add Veggies: Throw in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to sneak in extra vegetables.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni works well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
2. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Definitely. Turkey bacon works just as well and is a great option if you’re looking for a lighter version.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, just combine and heat everything in the skillet.
4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, and check that your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Pairing Suggestions
This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is so hearty and flavorful that it’s a meal on its own. But if you want to round it out, serve it with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls would also be a great addition to soak up any extra sauce.
For drinks, a cold beer pairs perfectly with the richness of the dish, or if you prefer something non-alcoholic, a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade is a refreshing choice.
Call to Action
Love cheeseburgers? Love pasta? Then you need to try this delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta recipe. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and indulgence, and your whole family will be asking for seconds! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to the blog for more mouthwatering dishes that are sure to become household favorites.
