Go Back

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

This decadent loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger to your dinner table. Juicy beef, crispy bacon, and a creamy, cheesy sauce over tender pasta make this dish an instant family favorite. 🍔🧀🥓
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ground Beef The base of the dish, giving it that classic cheeseburger flavor. You can use lean ground beef or opt for a mix with more fat for extra juiciness.
  • 12 oz, penne, shells, or rotini Pasta Use a pasta shape that holds onto the sauce well. Penne, shells, or rotini work perfectly for this dish.
  • 6 slices, cooked until crispy Bacon Crispy bacon adds a savory, salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
  • 2 cups, shredded Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar provides a bold, cheesy flavor, melting into the sauce for a rich, creamy texture.
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese Adds extra creaminess to the sauce, giving it a velvety texture that clings to the pasta.
  • 1 small, diced Onion Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 2 cloves, minced Garlic Enhances the savory flavors of the beef and cheese.
  • ¼ cup Ketchup Brings in a hint of tangy sweetness, mimicking the flavor of a classic cheeseburger.
  • 1 tbsp, yellow or Dijon Mustard Adds a tangy zip, similar to the mustard you’d find on a burger.
  • ½ tsp Smoked Paprika Adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the bacon and cheese.
  • Salt and Pepper To taste, for seasoning the beef and sauce.

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    Add 12 oz of pasta (penne, shells, or rotini work best) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  • Cook the Bacon
    While the pasta is cooking, place 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat.
    Cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, then transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
    Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set it aside.
  • Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onions
    In the same skillet, add 1 pound of ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes).
    Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
    Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant.
  • Prepare the Cheeseburger Sauce
    Lower the heat and add 4 oz of cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth.
    Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
    Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Combine the Pasta and Bacon
    Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the cheeseburger sauce to coat the pasta evenly.
    Stir in the crumbled bacon, saving a small portion for garnish if desired.
  • Serve and Garnish
    Spoon the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta into bowls or plates and sprinkle the reserved bacon on top.
    Optional: Add slices of pickles or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor and presentation.