Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Bacon:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.

3. Prepare the Cheeseburger Mix:

1. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook in the bacon grease until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
2. Stir in the onion, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion softens, about 3-4 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
2. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Add the ketchup and mustard, stirring to combine.

5. Combine Everything:

1. Add the pasta, cooked bacon, and cheese sauce to the skillet with the ground beef mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Serve:

1. Transfer to serving plates and garnish with sliced green onions and diced pickles for extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Conclusion

Loaded with savory, cheesy goodness, Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table. This one-pan dish captures all the best parts of a cheeseburger in pasta form, making it an instant favorite for both kids and adults alike. Pair with a crisp side salad or enjoy as is for a truly indulgent meal!