Cheeseburger Pasta

Cheeseburger Pasta


Introduction

Cheeseburger Pasta is a delicious and fun twist on traditional cheeseburgers. This hearty dish combines all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a creamy pasta dish. It’s quick to prepare and packed with ingredients that everyone loves, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for busy families looking for a tasty meal that can be made in under an hour. It combines the mouthwatering taste of cheeseburgers with the comfort of pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward!

How to Make Cheeseburger Pasta

Making Cheeseburger Pasta is straightforward, and you can follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal.

Ingredients

  • 6 strips bacon
  • ¾ lb. ground beef
  • 1 ½ teaspoon steak seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons butter or bacon drippings
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • ¼ cup chicken broth or beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
  • 2 teaspoons ketchup
  • 2 teaspoons dill pickle juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ lb. rotini pasta

Directions

  1. Cut the bacon into thirds and fry them in a large high-walled skillet or Dutch oven over low heat until crispy on both sides. Remove the bacon from the skillet and reserve the drippings. Once cool, roughly chop the bacon. You can also measure out the remaining ingredients while the bacon cooks.

  2. In the same skillet, season the ground beef with steak seasoning. Cook and crumble the beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta.

  4. While the pasta is cooking, melt 3 tablespoons of the reserved bacon drippings (or butter) in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux.

  5. Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly. Following that, add the milk and chicken (or beef) broth gradually, continuing to stir. Mix in the mustard, ketchup, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.

  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cool for a minute, then gradually sprinkle in the cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until melted.

  7. Add the ground beef and half of the chopped bacon to the cheese sauce and stir well to combine. Finally, gently mix in the drained pasta.

  8. Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top and serve!

How to Serve Cheeseburger Pasta

Cheeseburger Pasta is best served hot. You can garnish it with extra cheese or freshly chopped parsley for added color. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Cheeseburger Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to bring back some creaminess if it thickens.

Tips to Make Cheeseburger Pasta

  • Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
  • Cook the ground beef until no longer pink to ensure it’s safe to eat.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste; add more mustard or hot sauce if you like it spicier.

Variation (if any)

You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. For a healthier option, consider using lean turkey instead of beef and whole-grain pasta.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or macaroni.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Use plant-based ground meat and omit the bacon.

Can I freeze Cheeseburger Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container, although the texture may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best to consume within 1-2 months for the best quality.

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