Description
Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
Ingredients:
300g penne pasta
300g ground beef
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for 1 minute.
Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine:
Add the cooked pasta and ground beef to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Add the Bacon:
Mix in the crumbled bacon, reserving a little for garnish.
6. Serve:
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with the remaining bacon and fresh chives.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta!
#PastaLovers #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: cook and crumble the bacon, shred the cheddar, mince the garlic, and chop the chives. Begin by boiling the pasta in well-salted water; this is your only chance to season the pasta itself. While it cooks, brown the ground beef in a large, high-sided skillet or Dutch oven, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat but do not wipe the skillet, as those browned bits add flavor. After removing the beef, melt the butter in the same pan and sauté the garlic just until fragrant, about 60 seconds, to avoid bitterness. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the cream, cheeses, and seasonings. Stir constantly until a smooth, cohesive sauce forms. Finally, combine the drained pasta, beef, and most of the bacon into the sauce, tossing until everything is gloriously coated and heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides to balance its decadence. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans or broccoli. For a true “cheeseburger” experience, offer classic burger toppings on the side, such as dill pickle spears, sliced tomatoes, or a dollop of tangy burger sauce. A cold beer or sparkling water with lemon makes for the perfect beverage pairing.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta and brown beef separately. Create a creamy cheese sauce with garlic, cream, cheddar, parmesan, and paprika in the beef skillet. Combine pasta, beef, and bacon into the sauce, then garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Any short pasta with good sauce-holding capabilities works well, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or shells.
How can I make this dish less rich? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or a splash of beef broth. You can also use a lighter cheese blend or reduce the amount of bacon.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, but the sauce may thicken upon standing. Reheat it gently on the stove with a small splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I add other burger toppings? Definitely! Try stirring in diced pickles, a tablespoon of yellow mustard, or chopped onions sautéed with the ground beef.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best outcome: Do not overcook the garlic when sautéing, as it will turn bitter. Ensure your sauce is on low heat when adding the cheese to prevent it from breaking or becoming grainy. Do not skip salting the pasta water, as it’s crucial for foundational flavor. Finally, avoid adding all the bacon into the mix—reserving some for garnish provides a delightful crispy texture contrast in every bite.
Conclusion
This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta masterfully combines the beloved flavors of a classic burger with the comforting heartiness of pasta. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal yet feels special enough for casual entertaining. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily avoid common errors and customize the dish to your taste. We hope this becomes a new favorite in your comfort food rotation.