Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

If you love the hearty flavors of a cheeseburger and crave the comfort of a pasta bake, then this Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is about to become your new favorite dinner. Combining savory ground beef, smoky turkey bacon, tender penne pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce, this dish is pure comfort food magic. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for a cozy night in or feeding a hungry family. The addition of diced tomatoes with green chilies adds a subtle kick, making every bite exciting and flavorful.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake hits all the right notes for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering. It’s packed with protein and cheesy goodness, making it both filling and delicious. What makes this recipe a keeper is how effortlessly it combines familiar burger flavors with the ease of a one-dish pasta bake. No need to juggle multiple pans or complicated steps — everything cooks together in one casserole dish, saving you time and cleanup. Plus, the turkey bacon is a leaner alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor, ensuring a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition.

Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort foods or looking for a new twist on pasta night, this recipe delivers. Its versatility means you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or add your own favorite burger toppings. Ready to create a dish that tastes like your favorite burger joint but in pasta form? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot – for boiling the penne pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the beef, bacon, onions, and garlic
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient portions
• Colander – to drain the cooked pasta
• Baking dish (9×13 inches) – to assemble and bake the pasta
• Mixing spoon or spatula – to combine everything smoothly
• Oven mitts – to safely remove the hot pasta bake from the oven

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 10-11 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the savory beef and bacon mixture.

Step 2: Sauté the Bacon and Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped turkey bacon until it starts to crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for that classic burger flavor.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Meat Mixture, and Cheese

Add the cooked penne pasta and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese begins to melt and coats the pasta evenly.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and cooked turkey bacon evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth in the sauce.
• Top with sliced pickles or a drizzle of mustard for a classic cheeseburger flair.
• Use smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a smoky or spicy twist.
• Stir in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat during cooler months.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil during spring and summer for brightness.

Steer Clear of These

• Avoid overcooking the pasta initially; it should be just al dente since it will bake further.
• Don’t skip draining excess fat from the beef to prevent a greasy bake.
• Refrain from using pre-shredded cheese with additives that don’t melt well.
• Try not to overcrowd the skillet when browning meat, as it can steam instead of brown.

Shelf Life & Storage

This pasta bake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover loosely with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings. It also freezes beautifully; store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully to hold the sauce and toppings, you can swap in rigatoni, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta type and shape.

Is there a way to make this lighter?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Also, lean ground beef and turkey bacon help keep the dish on the lighter side without compromising flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the pasta bake up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to mix in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini when adding the onion and garlic. These veggies blend well and add nutrition and color without overpowering the cheeseburger flavor.

Similar Recipes

• Cheeseburger Soup – A creamy, comforting soup that captures all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a bowl.
• Good Ole Fashioned Mac And Cheese – Classic mac and cheese with a rich, cheesy sauce and a crispy topping.

That’s a Wrap

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is the perfect dish when you want that familiar cheeseburger taste but crave the warmth and heartiness of pasta. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this pasta bake delivers comfort in every cheesy bite. So grab your skillet and baking dish, and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious pasta bakes you’ll ever taste!

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