Description
Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni
Ingredients:
2 cups macaroni pasta, cooked
200g ground beef
4 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup diced onion
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup milk
1 tbsp butter
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the onions until soft. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
2. Combine the Ingredients: Add cooked macaroni to the skillet, then stir in ketchup, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to combine.
3. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting and hearty dish.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni every time. First, cook your macaroni pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and, once melted, sauté the diced onion until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. If there is excess grease, drain it from the skillet.
Reduce the heat to low. To the beef and onion mixture, add the cooked macaroni, ketchup, and milk. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Next, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the mixture, creating a creamy sauce. Turn off the heat. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese and all of the crumbled bacon over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese topping perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. For a fresh contrast, serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Pickles, sliced tomatoes, or a dollop of tangy burger sauce on the side can enhance the “cheeseburger” experience. For a fun family dinner, consider serving it directly from the skillet at the table.
How-to Summary
In summary: brown beef and onions, mix with cooked pasta, ketchup, milk, and half the cheese, then top with remaining cheese and bacon before melting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it completely, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and reheat it in the oven at 350°F until bubbly.
What can I use instead of ketchup? For a richer flavor, substitute the ketchup with an equal amount of tomato sauce or pasta sauce, adding a pinch of sugar if needed.
How can I make it creamier? Replace the milk with an equal amount of evaporated milk, heavy cream, or a cream-based soup like condensed cheddar cheese soup.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. You can also use pre-cooked shredded chicken.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta just to al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Not Draining Excess Fat: Failing to drain the beef grease can make the final dish oily.
- High Heat for Cheese: Use low or residual heat to melt the cheese topping to prevent it from becoming greasy or rubbery.
- Skipping the Onion Sauté: Properly sautéing the onion builds a crucial flavor base; don’t just add it raw with the beef.
Conclusion
This Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food, masterfully combining beloved flavors into a simple, one-skillet meal. It’s family-friendly, endlessly customizable, and delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious fusion of two classic favorites.