Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
A comforting and creamy dish that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces short pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni) Shorter shapes recommended for better sauce adherence
- 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- 6 slices bacon Cooked and crispy
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese For creaminess and depth
- 4 ounces cream cheese
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Adding Spices
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper into the cooked beef.
Making the Sauce
- Reduce heat to low and add the cream cheese and cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted and well combined.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Serving
- Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with extra bacon or cheese if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor and consider adding vegetables for a healthier twist.