Description
Cheesy Bacon Beef Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
12 oz rotini pasta
1 lb ground beef
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Mix cooked pasta and crumbled bacon into the skillet. Toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
#CheesyPasta #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof, creamy pasta dish. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the rotini to al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. While the pasta cooks, chop the raw bacon into small pieces and fry in your large skillet until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving about a tablespoon of bacon fat. Add the ground beef to the same skillet and brown it over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. Reduce heat to medium-low and season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the heavy cream and let it warm for 1-2 minutes, then gradually stir in the shredded cheddar until a smooth, cohesive sauce forms. Finally, add the drained pasta and most of the crumbled bacon to the skillet, tossing everything until evenly coated and heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a vegetable side, try steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. To serve, garnish with the reserved crumbled bacon and fresh parsley for color. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. For a casual gathering, serve it directly from the skillet at the table.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta and bacon separately. Brown beef in bacon fat, season, then create a cheese sauce with cream and cheddar. Combine everything in the skillet, garnish, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or shells are excellent alternatives that hold sauce well.
How can I make this recipe less heavy? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk and use a lighter cheese like mozzarella. You can also use lean ground turkey.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can prep components ahead, but assemble and reheat gently with a splash of milk, as the sauce can thicken when cooled.
My cheese sauce is grainy. What happened? This often occurs if the heat is too high when adding the cheese. Always melt cheese over low heat and add it gradually.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta to mush in the initial boil will result in a mushy final dish. Aim for al dente.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Shred your own cheddar from a block.
- High Heat with Cream: Bringing the cream to a rapid boil can cause it to separate or scorch. A gentle simmer is key.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: Always save a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. It’s perfect for thinning the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon Beef Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort food, combining savory flavors in a creamy, satisfying dish. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal fuss. Its versatility in ingredients and simple preparation make it a reliable recipe you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy this hearty, crowd-pleasing pasta that perfectly balances simplicity and decadent flavor.