Description

If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly melds the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting goodness of pasta, look no further than Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake. This hearty meal satisfies your cravings for a juicy burger while wrapping everything in the cozy embrace of pasta, making it a family favorite for dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz rotini pasta: The twisty shape holds onto the sauce, making every bite flavorful.
4 slices bacon, chopped: Adds a smoky crunch that enhances the cheeseburger experience.
1 lb ground beef: The star protein, providing richness and heartiness to the dish.
1 small onion, diced: Offers sweetness and depth, balancing the dish’s savory elements.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a touch of herbal flavor that complements the beef and bacon.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a slight kick to elevate the taste.
1 cup marinara sauce: Creates a luscious base for the pasta, adding acidity and moisture.
1 cup beef broth: Helps to keep the pasta moist and adds a delicious beefy flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top, giving that classic cheeseburger feel.
½ cup cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, enhancing the overall texture.
¼ cup sour cream: Contributes creaminess and richness, balancing the flavors.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of herbal brightness.

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the rotini pasta. Cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook Bacon and Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the fat in the skillet. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until beef is browned and onion is translucent, about 8-10 minutes, then drain excess fat.
Combining Ingredients: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add marinara sauce and beef broth, followed by the cooked pasta. Mix well, then stir in cream cheese and sour cream until creamy.
Transferring to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon.
Baking Process: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, cover and warm in the oven or microwave. To customize, consider using gluten-free pasta or swapping ground beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives. Add Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor or diced jalapeños for heat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg