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Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

Category: Hearty Main Courses

This comforting pasta dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar with tender penne, all tossed in a creamy tomato and Worcestershire sauce. The skillet-cooked meat mixture is seasoned with steak seasoning, garlic, onion, and dill relish for an extra flavorful bite. Finished with melted cheese and topped with bacon, this one-pan bake is hearty and satisfying. Serve hot and garnish with your favorite cheeseburger-style toppings such as pickles or extra relish for added zing. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you crave classic American flavors in a single dish.

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Ranah
Updated on Wed, 01 Oct 2025 23:17:10 GMT
A bowl of pasta with bacon and cheese. Save
A bowl of pasta with bacon and cheese. | bakeitgood.com

Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is my answer when I want all the comforting flavors of a classic diner cheeseburger but need dinner fast. It brings together juicy ground beef, smoky bacon, plenty of cheddar cheese, and pasta in one irresistibly creamy bake that disappears in minutes at my table.

The first time I made this I was just trying to use up bacon and beef before a grocery run. Now it is one of our go to weeknight meals for when cravings hit or a cold snap rolls in.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: Choose freshly ground beef with a bright red color and just a little fat for rich flavor
  • Bacon: Go for thick cut bacon if you can because it crisps up beautifully and holds its texture
  • Yellow onion: Adds classic depth and a touch of sweetness Dice it fine so it melts into the sauce
  • Montreal steak seasoning: Gives that burger joint vibe with savory spices
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: Keep the flavors bold and savory so every bite tastes like a cheeseburger
  • Worcestershire sauce: Delivers that signature umami tang
  • Dill relish: Adds a unique burger topping twist plus tanginess
  • Tomato sauce: Forms the saucy backbone
  • Heavy whipping cream: Helps make everything creamy and luscious
  • Mild cheddar cheese: Shred your own for the very best melt and flavor
  • Penne pasta or your favorite shape: Holds the sauce in every bite Go for good quality pasta for best texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Boil your pasta in well salted water until just al dente so it will not go mushy when baked later Drain well and set aside
Fry the Bacon:
In your largest skillet cook the diced bacon over medium high heat until crisp Scoop bacon pieces out onto paper towels to drain and set aside
Brown the Beef and Onions:
Add ground beef and diced onion to the fat in the skillet Cook over medium heat breaking up the beef until no pink remains and onions are soft Drain off any excess grease for a lighter texture
Build the Sauce:
Season the cooked meat with steak seasoning garlic powder and onion powder Add Worcestershire sauce dill relish tomato sauce and whipping cream to the skillet Stir in half the bacon and half the cheese Mix well until smooth and cheesy
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet Gently toss everything together until sauce coats every noodle evenly
Bake and Finish:
Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheddar and bacon all over the top Bake at three fifty degrees for about five to ten minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden Dish up while piping hot
A plate of pasta with bacon and cheese. Save
A plate of pasta with bacon and cheese. | bakeitgood.com

My favorite ingredient here is definitely the smoky bacon It takes just a few minutes to crisp up but its flavor seeps right through the whole dish and my family always fights for the extra pieces on top We once served this for an at home movie night and everyone wanted seconds before the film even started

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in a tightly covered dish for up to four days I suggest adding just a splash of milk or cream before reheating to bring the sauce back to life You can also freeze single portions which is perfect for quick lunches

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version Use your favorite cheese blend if you love sharp cheddar or Monterey jack For a gluten free option trade the penne for your preferred gluten free pasta cooked just shy of al dente so it will not fall apart

Serving Suggestions

Top individual bowls with diced pickles sliced tomatoes or even a drizzle of burger sauce for extra flair This makes a fantastic game day dinner or potluck main course Serve with a big green salad and baked fries for the full burger experience

A delicious bacon cheeseburger pasta dish. Save
A delicious bacon cheeseburger pasta dish. | bakeitgood.com

Cultural Context

This dish was inspired by American comfort classics blending the flavors of a cheeseburger with beloved pasta bake traditions It reflects that classic home cook spirit of turning leftovers and pantry staples into something unexpectedly delicious

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Yes, penne, rotini, shells, or any similar sturdy pasta shape will hold up well and absorb the sauce beautifully.

→ How can I make the sauce creamier?

Shred cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded, and make sure to include heavy whipping cream for maximum creaminess.

→ Does the bacon need to be cooked before adding to the pasta?

Yes, cook the diced bacon pieces until crispy in a skillet, then drain and add to the mixture for the best texture.

→ What toppings go well with this pasta?

Popular options include dill pickles, extra cheddar, chopped tomatoes, or a drizzle of ketchup and mustard to echo burger flavors.

→ Can I prepare this meal in advance?

You can assemble the components ahead of time and bake just before serving, or reheat leftovers in the oven for best results.

Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

Ground beef, bacon, and cheddar rolled into pasta with a creamy, savory sauce for ultimate comfort.

Prep Time
5 min
Cooking Time
20 min
Total Time
25 min
By: Seham

Category: Hearty Main Dishes

Skill Level: Medium

Cuisine Style: American

Output: 6 Servings

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients

01 2 pounds ground beef
02 1 packet bacon, diced
03 ½ yellow onion, diced
04 1 tablespoon Montreal steak seasoning
05 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 1 teaspoon onion powder
07 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
08 1 tablespoon dill relish
09 8 ounces tomato sauce
10 ½ cup heavy whipping cream
11 2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
12 12 ounces penne pasta

Steps

Step 01

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Set aside.

Step 02

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the diced bacon pieces until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel to drain.

Step 03

Add the diced onion and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until no pink remains, then drain off all excess grease.

Step 04

Season the beef mixture with Montreal steak seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add Worcestershire sauce, dill relish, tomato sauce, and heavy whipping cream. Stir to combine.

Step 05

Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and half the cooked bacon. Stir until well combined.

Step 06

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to incorporate.

Step 07

Top the pasta mixture with the remaining shredded cheese and bacon. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted. Serve and enjoy.

Notes and Tips

  1. Shred your own cheese from a block for a creamier, smoother sauce.
  2. Any pasta shape, like penne, rotini, or shells, will work.
  3. Top with your favorite cheeseburger toppings for even more flavor.

Required Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This data is for informational purposes and should not replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 853
  • Fats: 53 g
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Proteins: 44 g