Savory Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this mouthwatering Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake. Imagine layers of creamy penne pasta nestled between seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheddar cheese. This dish is a delightful fusion of classic burger flavors and hearty pasta that will have your taste buds singing with joy.

I stumbled upon this Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake recipe after a barbecue weekend left us with surplus bacon and ground beef. Little did I know it would quickly become a family favorite, earning regular spots on our dinner rotation. The star of the show is undoubtedly the cheddar cheese, melting into a luscious blanket of deliciousness that my loved ones can’t get enough of.

This pasta bake not only satisfies immediate cravings but also makes for a convenient meal prep option. With simple reheating instructions and the flexibility to customize ingredients like pasta shapes or cheese variations, this recipe can easily cater to your preferences. Whether you’re a fan of spicing things up with jalapeños or prefer a classic cheeseburger twist with extra pickles, this Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is sure to hit all the right notes for a cozy family dinner.

Quick Benefits

• Hearty Comfort Food: Combines the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger in a creamy, pasta form for a satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different pasta shapes, protein options, and cheese varieties.
• Convenient: Stores well in the fridge for up to four days and reheats easily for quick, delicious leftovers.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, bringing together pasta lovers and burger fans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake Recipe Recipe

• A comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with creamy pasta, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave some classic American comfort food.
• A versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your preferences – swap out penne for other pasta shapes, use different types of cheese, or substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• The melty mild cheddar cheese wraps the pasta in gooey deliciousness, making every bite a cheesy delight that even cheese lovers will adore.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to four days, providing a convenient and delicious meal prep option for the week ahead.
• Offers a creative twist on traditional cheeseburgers, appealing to both pasta lovers and burger fans with its unique blend of flavors.
• Adaptable to different taste preferences – add extra dill pickles, fresh diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, or hot sauce to enhance the flavors and customize the dish to your liking.
• Easy to reheat and refresh the sauce by adding a splash of cream or milk, maintaining the creamy texture and flavors even after storing in the fridge.
• The addition of bacon, seasoned beef, and creamy cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering combination that’s bound to be a hit with friends and family.

Ingredients for Savory Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 340 grams penne pasta
• 900 grams ground beef
• 1 packet (approximately 225 grams) bacon, diced
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced

Seasonings and Sauces

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Montreal steak seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dill relish

Sauce Base

• 120 millilitres heavy whipping cream
• 225 grams tomato sauce

Cheese

• 200 grams mild cheddar cheese, shredded

Pro Tips for Savory Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake Recipe

For a delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake, consider adding a touch of smokiness by using smoked bacon. Crisp up the bacon separately before adding it to the dish to ensure it stays crunchy and flavorful. Additionally, consider adding a splash of barbecue sauce to the meat mixture for an extra layer of tangy sweetness reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger.

To elevate the cheesy goodness of this dish, try mixing different types of cheese like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even a bit of blue cheese for a more complex flavor profile. Layering different cheeses between the pasta and meat mixture will create a gooey and melty texture that everyone will love.

To add a fresh and tangy twist to your Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions, and a drizzle of ketchup. These simple garnishes will bring out the flavors of the dish and mimic the classic burger toppings we all know and love.

How to Make Savory Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente following package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Crisp Bacon

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook diced bacon until golden and crispy. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

Step 3: Brown Beef and Onions

In the same skillet, cook diced onion and ground beef until beef is fully browned and onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Season Beef Mixture

Evenly sprinkle Montreal steak seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder over the beef mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings.

Step 5: Incorporate Sauces

Combine Worcestershire sauce, dill relish, tomato sauce, and heavy cream in the pan. Stir until mixture is well mixed.

Step 6: Melt Cheese and Combine Bacon

Gently mix in 100 grams of shredded cheddar cheese and half of the cooked bacon until cheese is completely melted and mixture is well combined.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta

Combine cooked penne with the meat sauce in the skillet, tossing to coat evenly.

Step 8: Assemble and Bake

Spread the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese and reserved bacon on top. Bake at 175°C for 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Serve

Take out of the oven, let it cool for a bit, then cut into portions and serve right away.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To store leftovers, place the pasta bake in airtight containers. When ready to enjoy again, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave. For a fresh and creamy texture, consider adding a splash of cream or milk while reheating.

If you plan on freezing the Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture before reheating. This way, you can enjoy this delicious comfort food at a later time without compromising its taste and quality.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different pasta shape, feel free to substitute penne with ziti, rigatoni, or any other short pasta you have on hand. These shapes will hold the sauce well and provide a similar texture to the dish.

While mild cheddar cheese is recommended for its classic flavor, you can experiment with adding in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra creaminess and a different taste profile. These cheeses will melt beautifully and add a rich, gooey texture to the dish.

If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, you can swap out the heavy whipping cream for half-and-half or whole milk. Additionally, using lean ground beef or turkey instead of regular ground beef can reduce the fat content while still maintaining the savory flavors of the bacon cheeseburger pasta bake.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving this Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake, try portioning it into individual ramekins before baking. This way, each person gets their own cute mini pasta bake, perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests. Top each ramekin with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream for a personalized touch.

To elevate the presentation of this dish, consider layering the pasta bake in a baking dish with alternating layers of pasta, bacon, beef, and cheese. Finish off the top layer with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and broil it for a few minutes until golden and bubbly. Serve it family-style at the table and watch everyone dig in eagerly to savor the delicious flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a comforting pasta bake.

FAQs for Savory Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake Recipe

Can I substitute penne with a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with ziti, rigatoni, or any short pasta for a similar texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mild cheddar?

Mild cheddar is recommended, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Can I make this dish lighter by using different ingredients?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, and use leaner ground beef or turkey.

Does this dish reheat well?

Yes, it reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast, a burger lover, or just someone looking for a cozy and satisfying meal, Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is sure to hit the spot. The creamy pasta, savory beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese come together in a delightful medley of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own by swapping ingredients or adding your favorite toppings. The beauty of Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to your preferences. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal that will have your family coming back for more. Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is a must-try recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!