Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
A deliciously indulgent pasta dish combining the flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy sauce and crispy bacon, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base
- 8 ounces short pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni) Opt for shorter shapes that cling to the sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese For creamy richness and a bit of tang.
- 4 ounces cream cheese Gives the sauce a luscious, dreamy texture.
- 6 slices bacon Cooked and crispy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Enhances savory flavor without the fuss of chopping onions.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper Right amount of spice to awaken your palate.
Instructions
Cooking
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your short pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, saving a splash of that pasta water for later.
- Step 2: Sauté the Beef - In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until completely cooked and no longer pink.
- Step 3: Crisp the Bacon - Fry your bacon in a separate pan until crispy. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
- Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce - In the same skillet as the beef, reduce heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Step 5: Mix in Cheese and Pasta - Add the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar to the creamy mixture, stirring until well combined. Add reserved pasta water if too thick.
- Step 6: Add Bacon and Serve - Crumble bacon into the mixture, stir well, and serve hot.
Notes
Don’t overcook your pasta! Use high-quality cheese for best flavor. Feel free to sauté veggies, taste, and adjust seasonings as needed.