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If you are craving a dish that perfectly combines the juicy, savory goodness of a cheeseburger with comforting pasta, then this Cheeseburger Pasta with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe is your new go-to! Imagine tender rotini noodles blanketed in a luscious cheese sauce bursting with tangy mustard, a hint of pickle, and the unmistakable smoky crunch of crispy bacon. Every forkful is like a warm, cozy hug from your favorite classic diner meal, but faster and easier to make at home. This recipe brings together the best flavors of a cheeseburger in an unexpected, delightful pasta form that’s sure to become a family favorite for lunches and dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this dish might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. From the perfectly seasoned ground beef to the creamy cheddar sauce, these essentials work harmoniously to create an unforgettable taste experience.
- 6 strips bacon: Crispy bacon adds irresistible smoky crunch and richness to the pasta.
- ¾ lb. ground beef: The hearty protein base, seasoned to perfection with steak seasoning.
- 1 ½ teaspoon steak seasoning: A blend of spices that seasons the beef with bold, savory notes.
- 3 tablespoons butter (or bacon drippings): Used for the roux, this adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the creamy cheese sauce for that perfect consistency.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds velvety smoothness and indulgence to the sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Balances richness and makes the sauce silky without being too heavy.
- ¼ cup chicken broth (or beef broth): Builds savory layers and prevents the sauce from being too thick.
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard: Injects tanginess and a mild zest that brightens the dish.
- 2 teaspoons ketchup: Brings just the right hint of sweetness and acidity, reminiscent of that classic burger flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dill pickle juice: A secret ingredient that adds that unmistakable cheeseburger tang.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory profile and adds umami richness.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce: A gentle kick to balance the creamy cheese and sweet notes.
- 1 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp, melty cheese that forms the heart of this indulgent pasta.
- ½ lb. rotini pasta: Twisty noodles that hold onto every bit of sauce and bacon flavor.
How to Make Cheeseburger Pasta with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Crisp Up the Bacon
Start by cutting your bacon strips into thirds, then gently fry them in a large skillet over low heat until they turn perfectly crispy on both sides. Keeping the heat low ensures they render fat slowly and crisp evenly without burning. Once done, remove the bacon and reserve the flavorful drippings in the pan for making your sauce. Roughly chop the cooled bacon pieces. While the bacon cooks, prepping the remaining ingredients keeps everything flowing smoothly.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Ground Beef
Using the same skillet that now holds bacon drippings, toss in the ground beef seasoned with steak seasoning. Cook it over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it browns, until it’s fully cooked and beautifully crumbled. Drain excess grease for a less oily dish, then set the beef aside. This step layers your pasta with that satisfying, savory burger essence.
Step 3: Boil the Rotini Pasta
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your rotini pasta until just al dente, so it maintains a slight bite and doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside, ready to soak up that melt-in-your-mouth cheddar sauce.
Step 4: Build the Roux Base
Back to your skillet—heat the reserved bacon drippings (or butter if you prefer) over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to form a smooth roux. This step is essential to thicken the sauce and gives it that silky texture that clings so well to the pasta.
Step 5: Add Liquids and Flavorings
Slowly add heavy cream in small splashes while stirring constantly to keep the sauce smooth. Follow with milk and chicken broth the same way, creating a luscious, creamy base. Then stir in the mustard, ketchup, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce to infuse classic cheeseburger flavors with a touch of tang, sweetness, and a mild bite.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese
Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then lower the heat. Allow the sauce to cool slightly for a moment before gradually sprinkling in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and silky. This step transforms your sauce into a rich, cheesy masterpiece that everyone will crave.
Step 7: Combine Meat, Bacon, and Pasta
Add the cooked ground beef and half of the chopped bacon to the cheesy sauce, stirring to evenly distribute delicious meaty bites throughout. Finally, fold in the drained pasta gently, ensuring every piece is coated in that flavorful sauce. This is where the magic really comes together.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle the remaining crispy bacon over the top for a pop of crunch and smoky goodness right before serving. This final touch not only looks inviting but gives you that irresistible bacon hit in every bite.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Pasta with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate the dish to next-level deliciousness. Try sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a hint of color and light, fresh flavor contrast. A few pickled jalapeño slices add a playful spicy kick, while a dollop of sour cream can add creamy tang that mirrors the burger sauce sensation.
Side Dishes
This cheeseburger pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a cool cucumber salad or tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. Classic sides such as roasted vegetables or garlic bread work perfectly to round out the meal and keep everyone satisfied.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in mini cast-iron skillets or colorful bowls to highlight the hearty comfort vibe. You can also let everyone build their own bowls at the table by offering extra toppings like sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, or even a fried egg on top. This interactive presentation adds a lively touch to any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheeseburger Pasta with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce and pasta together helps the flavors deepen overnight, but be mindful that the texture is best enjoyed within this timeframe to avoid pasta becoming mushy.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, divide the pasta into portion-sized freezer-safe containers. It freezes beautifully and lasts up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain the creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Reheating
Reheat your pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to warm evenly and keep that creamy comfort intact. Avoid microwaving without stirring as it can create hot spots and toughen the cheese sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Cheeseburger Pasta with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for holding onto the sauce, other short pastas like penne, shells, or cavatappi also work wonderfully to capture every cheesy, bacon-y bite.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
You can swap out the ground beef and bacon for plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for an umami-rich meatless version. Just adjust seasonings to maintain the burger-inspired flavors.
Can I use pre-shredded cheddar cheese?
Definitely! Just keep in mind that pre-shredded cheese sometimes contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting slightly, so be sure to stir well and melt slowly for the creamiest sauce.
What can I substitute for dill pickle juice if I don’t have any on hand?
Try a splash of white vinegar mixed with a pinch of sugar and a little salt to mimic the tang and brightness that pickle juice brings to the dish.
How spicy is this dish with the hot sauce added?
The hot sauce adds just a subtle kick that balances the richness without overwhelming the dish. You can always adjust the amount up or down to suit your personal spice preference.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Pasta with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone who loves the comfort of a cheeseburger but craves something a little different. It’s flavorful, creamy, and packed with classic burger ingredients that unite in a fun and satisfying pasta form. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality comfort food right into your own kitchen. Serve it up, share it with loved ones, and prepare for all the rave reviews!
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Cheeseburger Pasta with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheeseburger Pasta is a hearty, comforting dish that combines all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy pasta bake. Featuring crispy bacon, seasoned ground beef, and a rich cheese sauce infused with tangy mustard, ketchup, and pickle juice, this recipe is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering with six servings.
Ingredients
Meats
- 6 strips bacon
- ¾ lb. ground beef
Seasoning and Sauces
- 1 ½ teaspoon steak seasoning
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons ketchup
- 2 teaspoons dill pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
Dairy and Fats
- 3 tablespoons butter (or bacon drippings)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pantry
- 3 tablespoons flour
- ¼ cup chicken broth (or beef broth)
- ½ lb. rotini pasta
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Cut the bacon into thirds and fry in a large high-walled skillet or Dutch oven over low heat until crispy on both sides. Remove from skillet and reserve bacon drippings. Roughly chop the bacon once cooled. (Measure out remaining ingredients while the bacon cooks.)
- Cook the Ground Beef: Season the ground beef with steak seasoning and cook and crumble it over medium-high heat in the same skillet. Drain any grease, then remove and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted pasta water to a boil and cook the pasta to al dente according to package instructions. Drain once cooked.
- Make the Roux Base: While the pasta boils, melt 3 tablespoons reserved bacon drippings (or butter) in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Add the heavy cream in small splashes, stirring continuously. Then add the milk and chicken broth gradually, stirring constantly. Stir in the yellow mustard, ketchup, dill pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce to create the flavor-packed cheese sauce base.
- Incorporate Cheese: Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it cool slightly for a minute, then gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
- Combine Meat and Pasta: Add the cooked ground beef and half of the chopped bacon to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. Gently fold in the drained rotini pasta, ensuring everything is well-coated with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining chopped bacon over the top and serve immediately for a delicious, cheesy meal.
Notes
- Using bacon drippings in place of butter adds extra flavor to the sauce.
- Adjust hot sauce amount to your preferred heat level.
- To make it lower fat, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and use lean ground beef.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and pasta.
