Description: A comforting and easy one-pan meal that combines the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger with the convenience of a pasta skillet. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. The creamy, cheesy sauce coats the pasta and ground beef, while the bacon adds a salty, smoky crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor and moisture)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (yellow or white onion)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6-8 slices)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (whole milk or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, pickle slices, diced tomatoes, hot sauce
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Al dente means the pasta is firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the skillet. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set aside. Rinsing the pasta isn’t necessary for this recipe, as the slight starchiness helps the sauce cling to it.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the bacon. You can cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Another quick method is to microwave the bacon between paper towels until crisp. Once cooked, let the bacon cool slightly, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet (cast iron is ideal, but any large skillet will work), heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Draining the grease is important to prevent the skillet from becoming too oily and to ensure the flavors are concentrated.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The onions add sweetness and depth to the dish, while the garlic provides a savory aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic; if it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
Step 5: Season the Beef
Season the ground beef mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the bacon and cheeseburger theme. Stir well to combine and ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Create the Cheeseburger Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cooked pasta, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and milk or cream (if using). The ketchup and mustard contribute to the classic cheeseburger flavor, while the Worcestershire sauce adds a savory umami note. The milk or cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce; adjust the amount to your preference.
Step 7: Melt the Cheese
Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and evenly combined. Ensure the cheese is fully melted and coats the pasta evenly. If the cheese isn’t melting properly, you can cover the skillet for a minute or two to trap the heat and encourage melting.
Step 8: Incorporate the Bacon
Stir in half of the crumbled bacon, reserving the other half for garnish. The bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor throughout the dish.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Serve the loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta skillet hot. Garnish with the remaining crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, pickle slices, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired. These garnishes add visual appeal, flavor, and texture to the dish.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Meal: The entire dish is cooked in one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
- Kid-Friendly: The combination of pasta, ground beef, cheese, and bacon is a guaranteed hit with kids.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your liking by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or spices.
- Comfort Food: This dish is warm, cheesy, and satisfying, perfect for a cozy night in.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete meal.
- Offer a variety of toppings, such as chopped green onions, pickle slices, diced tomatoes, and hot sauce.
- Serve with a cold glass of milk, iced tea, or lemonade.
Tips:
- Use a good quality ground beef with a decent amount of fat (80/20 blend) for the best flavor and moisture.
- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the skillet.
- Don’t overcook the ground beef; it should be browned but still tender.
- Adjust the amount of cheese and milk/cream to your preference.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- To make ahead, prepare the pasta and ground beef separately, then combine them in the skillet just before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving; may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: 650-750
- Protein: 35-45g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion:
The Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet is a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a comforting pasta dish. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and guaranteed crowd-pleasing appeal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, this skillet is a delicious and satisfying choice. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy a taste of cheeseburger bliss!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would work well in this recipe.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based ground beef alternative or crumbled tofu. Ensure the substitute is seasoned similarly to ground beef for optimal flavor.
- Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Definitely! Adding vegetables can boost the nutritional value and flavor of the skillet. Consider adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the skillet along with the onions.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer gluten-free pasta options made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Also, double-check the labels of the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce to ensure they are gluten-free.
- Can I freeze this recipe for later?
- While the pasta may change texture slightly after freezing, you can freeze this recipe for up to 2-3 months. Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or skillet.
