When I’m craving something hearty, cheesy, and comforting, this bacon cheeseburger pasta is always one of my top picks. It’s everything I love about a juicy bacon cheeseburger turned into a warm, cheesy pasta dish. From the savory ground beef and crispy bacon to the creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, every bite feels like comfort food at its finest.
The first time I made this was on a cold night when I wanted something quick but filling, and it instantly became a family favorite. It’s one of those recipes you can whip up in about 30 minutes with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a crowd, this dish hits all the right notes.
Why I Love This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
- Easy one-pan meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
- Loaded with savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheese.
- Rich, creamy, and satisfying — the ultimate comfort dish.
- Perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters.
- Tastes like a cheeseburger in pasta form, and who doesn’t love that?
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 6–8 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes)
- 12 ounces pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini work great)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How I Make Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta (Step-by-Step)
- Cook the Pasta
I cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain it, and set it aside. - Brown the Beef
While the pasta cooks, I brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, I drain any excess fat. - Add the Flavors
I stir in the drained tomatoes with green chilies, ketchup, and mustard. This combination gives the dish that classic cheeseburger taste with just a little kick. - Make it Creamy and Cheesy
I lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. I stir until everything is smooth, creamy, and fully combined. - Add the Pasta and Bacon
I gently fold in the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon, stirring until everything is coated in the cheesy sauce. - Serve
I dish it up hot, garnished with chopped parsley or even more crispy bacon on top for extra indulgence.
My Tips for the Best Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
- Cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
- Drain the beef well to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Use freshly shredded cheese — it melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Add extra mustard or hot sauce if you want a bit more tang and heat.
Fun Variations I’ve Tried
- Swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Adding pickles on top for an authentic cheeseburger flair.
- Stirring in sautéed mushrooms for extra richness.
- Using pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
What I Serve with Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the cheesy sauce.
- Roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Iced tea or a cold soda to wash it all down, just like a burger night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! It reheats well — just add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to keep the sauce smooth.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: You can, but the sauce texture may change slightly after freezing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated from the fridge.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby work great too.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Belongs in Your Recipe Rotation
This dish is the definition of comfort food — cheesy, creamy, loaded with bacon, and full of rich, savory flavors. It’s quick and easy to make, kid-friendly, and satisfying for adults too. Whether you’re looking for a fun twist on pasta night or need a filling dinner the whole family will devour, this recipe hits the spot every single time.
I hope you give it a try and love it as much as we do. And if you come up with creative add-ins or fun spins, let me know — I’m always excited to hear how others make comfort food their own!
How I Make Creamy, Cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta for the Ultimate Comfort Meal
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups ketchup
- 2 cups heavy cream or whole milk
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the ketchup, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, until heated through.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until the pasta is well coated.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese and chopped bacon. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional bacon if desired.
Leave a Reply