Beef Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

Introduction:
Indulge in the delicious fusion of flavors with this One Pan Beef Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake! Combining the hearty goodness of a cheeseburger with the comforting texture of pasta, this dish is a no-boil, one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With crispy bacon, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• No boiling required: Save time with a one-pan meal that doesn’t require pre-cooking the pasta.
• Comforting and hearty: Combines the best elements of a cheeseburger with creamy pasta.
• Family-friendly: A surefire hit with both kids and adults.
• Easy cleanup: Everything is cooked in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 strips bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

1. Cook the Bacon:

• In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of bacon fat in the pan.

1. Cook the Beef and Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, milk, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer.

1. Add the Pasta:

• Stir in the uncooked pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally.

1. Add Cheese and Bacon:

• Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and well combined.
• Sprinkle the cooked bacon evenly over the top.

1. Bake:

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.

1. Serve:

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Pasta: Make sure to stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking.
• Bacon: For extra crispiness, cook the bacon until very crispy.

Recipe Variations:

• Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a light beer or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect dinner.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Special Equipment:

• Oven-Safe Skillet: For cooking the bacon, beef, and pasta bake.

FAQ:

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
  Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a lighter option. Adjust seasonings as needed.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes for prepping ingredients and cooking the bacon.

Cook Time:

• 30 minutes for cooking the beef, pasta, and baking the casserole.

Total Time:

• 45 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Print

Closing Notes:
Have you tried making this One Pan Beef Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your one-pan creations and stay tuned for more easy and delicious recipes.