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Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food mashup—rich, cheesy, and packed with savory bacon and beef flavor!
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (corkscrew or penne) works best for holding sauce
  • 1 lb ground beef lean for less grease, but not too lean or it dries out
  • 1 cup chopped onion adds sweetness and depth
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, for savory aroma and flavor
  • 1 cup tomato sauce smooth, rich base
  • 1 cup beef broth keeps the bake moist and flavorful
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce boosts umami and complexity
  • 1 tsp mustard adds slight tang and cheeseburger authenticity
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp and melty
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese gooey, stringy texture
  • 1/2 cup turkey bacon cooked and crumbled, smoky topping
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • chopped green onions for garnish, fresh and bright finish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of corkscrew or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  • Add 1 cup of chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in 1 cup tomato sauce, 1 cup beef broth, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon mustard. Mix well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
  • Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Then, add 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon for that signature bacon cheeseburger crunch.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pasta for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on the edges.
  • Remove the pasta from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions to add a fresh and vibrant touch. Serve warm and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Baking Dish
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente pasta holds its shape better when baked.
  • Mustard and Worcestershire sauce are key for authentic cheeseburger flavor, so don’t skip them.
  • Drain excess fat from the beef to prevent a greasy pasta bake.
  • Let the bake rest a few minutes after baking to set for easier serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.