Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta: A Comforting One-Pot Wonder
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Toppings:
- Chopped pickles
- Sliced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
- Ketchup and mustard (for serving)
- Additional cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In the same pot, add the chopped bacon and cook over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
In the remaining bacon grease, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
To the pot, pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta back into the pot and mix well. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the crispy bacon back into the pasta mixture, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as chopped pickles, sliced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce. Drizzle with ketchup and mustard for that classic cheeseburger flair!