Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is a hearty, one-pot dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with pasta. It features smoky bacon, seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy pickles, making it a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 6 strips bacon, chopped
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the chopped bacon in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add the diced onion to the bacon fat and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned completely, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (with juices), and beef broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer covered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. Add the cooked bacon back to the pan along with chopped pickles.
- Remove from heat and top with remaining cheese. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt, then garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth. This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.