A Hearty Fusion of Ground Beef, Bacon & Cheesy Ketchup Sauce
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta blends the bold flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a creamy, comforting pasta dish. With crumbled bacon, melted cheddar, and a tangy ketchup-based sauce, it’s a crowd-pleasing, one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
A modern twist on comfort food that’s rich, meaty, and packed with nostalgia!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥩 Ground Beef Base: Browned to savory perfection for that classic burger taste.
- 🧀 Cheesy Goodness: Cheddar melts into every bite for gooey, cheesy richness.
- 🥓 Bacon Boost: Adds smoky crunch and depth—like a cheeseburger’s best friend.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for last-minute cravings.
- 🥣 One-Pan Wonder: No boiling, no straining—just mix, cook, and serve.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter version)
- 2 cups cooked rotini, penne, or elbow pasta (or gluten-free pasta)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, pepper jack, or vegan cheese)
- ½ cup crumbled bacon (or turkey bacon for less fat)
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or plant-based like oat or soy)
- ¼ cup (60ml) ketchup (or tomato sauce for deeper flavor)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami and tang – or soy sauce for vegan option)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat , cook ground beef until browned and crumbly (about 5–7 minutes ).
Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir to coat.
Gradually whisk in milk , a little at a time, to avoid lumps.
Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper .
Simmer for 2–3 minutes , stirring constantly, until thickened.
Step 3: Add Pasta & Cheese
Add cooked pasta to the skillet (or cook it while sauce simmers).
Toss gently to coat in the sauce.
Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Stir in Bacon & Serve
Mix in crumbled bacon until evenly distributed.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra ketchup .
Serve hot in bowls or directly from the pan.
Each bite brings together:
- Savory, seasoned ground beef
- Silky, cheesy ketchup sauce
- Golden, crunchy bacon bits
- And that classic cheeseburger nostalgia
Tips for Success:
- 🥄 Avoid Lumps: Temper the flour-coated beef with warm milk first before adding more.
- 🧀 Extra Melty Magic: Use freshly grated cheese—pre-grated cheese can clump.
- 🍞 Add Bread Crumbs: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle panko before broiling.
- 🥦 Boost Nutrition: Stir in peas, carrots, or spinach with the pasta.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with coleslaw, potato salad, or pickles for a full diner-style meal.
- Great with garlic bread, onion rings, or a green salad for balance.
- Ideal for school lunches, game-day snacks, or solo indulgence.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 – approximate):
(With regular beef and cheese – per serving)
- Calories: ~500 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~25g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~6g
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated to be unforgettable. With its creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and rich beef flavor—it’s a must-make for lovers of bold, indulgent dishes.
