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Transform dinner with this easy-to-make cheeseburger pasta recipe. Packed with savory flavors of beef, bacon, and cheddar, this family-friendly dish is perfect for weeknight meals. Learn how to create a creamy, flavorful sauce with simple ingredients like mustard, Worcestershire, and pickle juice. Perfect for pasta lovers looking for a satisfying meal with a twist.

Ingredients

6 strips bacon
¾ lb. ground beef
1½ teaspoons steak seasoning
3 tablespoons butter or reserved 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
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ lb. rotini pasta

Instructions

Cook the Bacon: Cut the bacon into thirds and fry in a large skillet or Dutch oven over low heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and reserve the drippings. Once cooled, roughly chop the bacon.
Prepare the Beef: Season the ground beef with steak seasoning. Cook and crumble it in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Drain any grease, then remove the beef and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta to al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of reserved bacon drippings or butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes.
Add Liquids: Slowly add the heavy cream in small splashes, whisking continuously. Gradually stir in the milk and broth the same way. Mix in the mustard, ketchup, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
Incorporate Cheese: Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cool slightly, then gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Stir the cooked ground beef and half of the chopped bacon into the sauce. Gently mix in the drained pasta until well coated.
Serve: Top with the remaining bacon and serve hot. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food Classic: Combines the irresistible flavors of a cheeseburger into a hearty pasta dish.
Customizable: Easily adaptable with different proteins, cheeses, or spices.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and cooking time.

Tips

Bacon Drippings: Save the drippings for a richer flavor in the sauce. Butter works as a substitute.
Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
Cheese Tip: Shred the cheddar fresh for a smoother melt.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat instead of beef.
Cheese Options: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses.
Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce to your desired level of heat or omit entirely.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Combine and reheat before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Can I freeze it?
The sauce may change texture when frozen, but the dish can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 1 month.

Serving

Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serve with garlic bread for a hearty side.

Suggestions

Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Add crumbled crispy onions on top for a delightful crunch.