Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Featured in Family-Favorite Main Dishes.

This skillet dish features tender pasta combined with browned ground beef, smoky bacon, and shredded cheddar blended in a creamy sauce made from milk and flour. Ketchup and Worcestershire lend a rich, tangy flavor, making every bite savory and satisfying. The cheesy goodness melts throughout, while extra bacon on top adds crunch. It's a quick, one-pan meal that's perfect for gathering at the table, delivering satisfying flavors and textures to please both kids and adults. Enjoy fresh from the stove with your favorite toppings for a hearty, memorable dinner.

Rehan Magic House Recipes
Updated on Fri, 17 Oct 2025 02:14:54 GMT
A bowl of pasta with cheese and bacon. Pin it
A bowl of pasta with cheese and bacon. | magichouserecipes.com

Loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta is the weeknight dinner that disappears fast at my table. It brings together everything I love about a classic bacon cheeseburger but in the form of ultra-creamy pasta comfort. The smoky bacon and cheddar with savory ground beef make a dish that always reminds me of big family gatherings and noisy kitchen conversations.

I have made this for my nephews on game nights. Every time, someone comes back for seconds. My daughter helps crumble the bacon and calls this our ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: brings the hearty burger flavor. Choose fresh meat with a bit of fat for best taste
  • Cooked pasta: such as rotini or penne holds the sauce perfectly. Use al dente pasta so it does not get mushy
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and brings that signature cheeseburger gooeyness. Go for sharp cheddar for more flavor
  • Cooked bacon: adds smokiness and a bit of crunch. Use thick-cut smoky bacon for best results
  • Milk: works with flour to create a creamy base. Whole milk gives richer texture
  • Flour: thickens the sauce to make every bite creamy and lush
  • Ketchup: adds a sweet tangy note that reminds me of classic burger taste
  • Worcestershire sauce: brings savory depth and an umami boost
  • Salt and pepper: rounds everything out. Taste and add as needed for balance

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:
Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure every bit is nicely browned for a boost of flavor. Take your time and let the edges get a little golden before pouring off excess fat so the dish stays lighter but still rich
Build the Creamy Sauce:
Sprinkle flour directly into the skillet over the beef. Stir continuously so it blends in smoothly and does not clump. Slowly whisk in the milk. Keep stirring as it thickens into a velvety sauce
Add Signature Flavor:
Mix in ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. These bring out that unmistakable burger character. Season with salt and pepper and simmer for a couple of minutes to let the flavors come together
Combine and Melt:
Add cooked pasta crumbled bacon and cheddar cheese right into the skillet. Stir well so everything is evenly mixed and the cheese melts into the sauce
Finish and Serve:
Dish up immediately while it is hot and gooey. If you want extra indulgence sprinkle more cheese or bacon on top before serving for a truly loaded finish
A bowl of pasta with cheese and bacon. Pin it
A bowl of pasta with cheese and bacon. | magichouserecipes.com

Sharp cheddar is my favorite in this recipe. I remember my dad always sneaking some extra cheese into the pan when we made this together on Saturday nights. The combination of smoky bacon and melty cheddar always makes me nostalgic for those evenings.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay good for up to three days. To reheat add a splash of milk so the sauce stays creamy and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. I love making extra to pack in thermoses for next-day work lunches

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want a lighter option. Any short sturdy pasta like shells or rigatoni also works well. You can use Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. For a touch of freshness stir in diced pickles or a handful of chopped green onions just before serving

A bowl of pasta with cheese and bacon. Pin it
A bowl of pasta with cheese and bacon. | magichouserecipes.com

Serving Suggestions

This skillet pasta works as a stand-alone dinner but is delicious with a bright salad or steamed broccoli. I sometimes top mine with extra pickles and a swirl of mustard for real burger vibes. Garlic bread on the side is always a hit for scooping up all that sauce

Cultural Context

Bacon cheeseburger pasta is the kind of dish that grew out of American fusion cooking. It combines diner-style burgers with homestyle pasta dishes making it a true comfort classic. This recipe is all about easy methods and big crowd-pleasing flavors something you find on busy dinner tables everywhere

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What types of pasta work best in this dish?

Rotini or penne hold the sauce well, but shells or fusilli can also be used for great texture.

→ How can I make the sauce extra creamy?

Gradually whisk the milk into the flour-coated beef, stirring constantly for a smooth, rich consistency.

→ Can I substitute different cheeses?

Yes, try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a melty twist, or add pepper jack for a subtle kick.

→ Is it possible to prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes. Store cooked pasta mixed with beef and sauce separately; combine and heat with cheese when ready to serve.

→ How do I get extra crispy bacon for topping?

Cook the bacon in a hot skillet until deeply golden, then drain well before crumbling over the finished dish.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms sautéed with the beef add extra flavor and texture.

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Pasta, ground beef, bacon, cheese, and savory sauce come together for a comforting skillet favorite.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes
By: Reham

Category: Main Courses

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 1 pound ground beef
02 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
03 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
05 1 cup milk
06 1/4 cup flour
07 1/4 cup ketchup
08 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
09 Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Sprinkle flour into the skillet with the browned beef. Stir well, and gradually whisk in the milk to form a creamy sauce.

Step 03

Stir in ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 04

Add the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly until the cheese is melted and the sauce evenly coats the pasta and ingredients.

Step 05

Serve immediately. Optionally, top with more cheese or crumbled bacon.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains gluten

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 520
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 44 g
  • Protein: 24 g