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
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12 oz elbow macaroni or short pasta of choice
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1 lb ground beef
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6 slices bacon, chopped
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded American cheese
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1 cup milk or half-and-half
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, pickles, hot sauce, extra cheese
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add pasta, cook until al dente, drain, and reserve a cup of pasta water.
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In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6–8 minutes, then remove and drain on paper towels.
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Add diced onion to the skillet, sauté for 3–4 minutes, then add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
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Add ground beef, cook until browned, about 7–10 minutes, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, and drain excess fat if needed.
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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.
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Toss cooked pasta in the cheese sauce, stir in crispy bacon, and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Optional: top with extra cheese, diced tomatoes, pickles, or hot sauce, cover for 2–3 minutes to melt cheese.
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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