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Nothing says comfort like the creamy, cheesy goodness of this bacon cheeseburger pasta bake. If your household is anything like mine, dinners have to satisfy a big appetite and bring everyone running to the table. This recipe manages both with familiar flavors, a creamy sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese—and salty crisp bacon in every bite.
I whipped this up on a chilly Friday night when everyone in my family needed some cheering up. We scraped the dish clean and it has been requested over and over ever since.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: The heart of the dish. Choose freshly ground for best flavor.
- Bacon: Adds smoky flavor and crunch. I look for thick cut slices.
- Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and aroma. Pick ones that feel heavy.
- Penne pasta: Holds sauce perfectly. Al dente is best for this bake.
- Montreal steak seasoning: Gives savory depth and grill inspired flavor.
- Garlic powder: Boosts richness and rounds out the sauce.
- Onion powder: Doubles up that comforting oniony profile.
- Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami and echoes burger vibes.
- Dill relish: Lends tang for balance and that classic cheeseburger zing. Opt for refrigerated for best crunch.
- Tomato sauce: Binds ingredients and brings mild acidity. Use a sauce with just tomatoes and salt for cleaner flavor.
- Heavy whipping cream: Creamy indulgence and body to the sauce.
- Mild cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection. Freshly shredded melts best.
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Cook your penne in a large pot of salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Crisp the Bacon:
- Using a large skillet over medium high heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Golden edges add flavor and texture. After cooking, transfer bacon to a paper towel lined plate to keep it crisp.
- Brown the Beef and Onions:
- Add diced onions and ground beef to the same skillet. Sauté over medium heat until beef is cooked through and onions are soft. Be diligent about breaking up the beef for even cooking and carefully drain excess grease.
- Season the Beef:
- Stir Montreal steak seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder into the hot beef and onions. Toss well until spices coat the mixture evenly.
- Build the Sauce:
- Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, dill relish, tomato sauce, and heavy whipping cream. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix thoroughly so every bite gets saucy flavor.
- Melt in Cheese and Bacon:
- Add one cup of shredded cheddar and half the bacon. Stir slowly until cheese fully melts and everything looks cohesive.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Fold the cooked pasta into the saucy beef mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly so every bit of penne is coated.
- Bake the Dish:
- Spread mixture into a baking dish. Top with the rest of shredded cheddar and bacon. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for five to ten minutes or until cheese is bubbly and melted. Serve right away while piping hot.
This dish always reminds me of trying to recreate drive through burgers at home but with a homestyle twist. My favorite part is the thick cut bacon because it adds texture and extra flavor to every mouthful. Sure to become part of your regular rotation.
Storage Tips
Leftovers will keep in the fridge for three to four days. Just cover well and reheat gently for best results. For longer storage, this pasta bake freezes well. Slice into single portions before freezing so you can grab a serving any time.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have penne, try rotini or rigatoni. Short sturdy shapes work best. Turkey or chicken can replace the ground beef and a sharp cheddar or colby jack can stand in for mild cheddar. If you want to skip bacon, try crumbled sausage for a different smokiness.
Serving Suggestions
A crispy green salad or roasted broccoli on the side helps balance the richness. Add extra pickles for crunch or a dab of ketchup if you like that classic burger flavor. For potlucks, try doubling the recipe.
Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations
Bacon cheeseburger pasta bake brings all American flavors together in one casserole. You can tweak the basics for each season. Swap in roasted peppers in the fall or extra fresh tomatoes in summer.
- Use what is in your fridge and pantry for add ins
- Switch up cheeses for a new spin each time
- This dish makes great leftovers lunches
Success Stories
Whenever I bring this to gatherings there are never leftovers. One friend told me her kids ate seconds and then asked to take some home for lunch the next day. That is the sign of a winning recipe in my book.
Freezer Meal Conversion
This bake is a freezer hero. Assemble everything up to the baking step. Wrap tightly and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. Add five extra minutes if baking straight from cold.
This cheesy pasta bake is pure comfort with a burger twist. Try it once and it is bound to become a family favorite.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like rotini or rigatoni works well and holds the hearty sauce and cheese.
- → How do I get crispy bacon pieces throughout?
Cook bacon separately until crisp, then add some inside the bake and sprinkle the rest on top before baking.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble and refrigerate before baking. When ready, bake until heated through and cheese melts.
- → What sides pair well with this bake?
Fresh salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables round out the hearty flavors of this pasta bake.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- → Is it possible to substitute beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative can be used for a different spin on flavor and texture.