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Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet


  • Author: Sarah White
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with beef, bacon, and pasta, this skillet delivers all the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger in one hearty meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or short pasta of choice

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 6 slices bacon, chopped

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded American cheese

  • 1 cup milk or half-and-half

  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1/2 tsp paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, pickles, hot sauce, extra cheese


Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta, cook until al dente, drain, and reserve a cup of pasta water.

  2. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6–8 minutes, then remove and drain on paper towels.

  3. Add diced onion to the skillet, sauté for 3–4 minutes, then add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

  4. Add ground beef, cook until browned, about 7–10 minutes, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, and drain excess fat if needed.

  5. Reduce heat to low, stir in milk, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Gradually add cheeses, stirring until smooth. Add pasta water if sauce is too thick.

  6. Toss cooked pasta in the cheese sauce, stir in crispy bacon, and adjust seasoning as needed.

  7. Optional: top with extra cheese, diced tomatoes, pickles, or hot sauce, cover for 2–3 minutes to melt cheese.

  8. Serve hot, pairing with salad, garlic bread, or vegetables as desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Customize with different cheeses, pasta shapes, or vegetables.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American