Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet

 

🧀 1. Why This Dish Works Magic

• All-in-one comfort: Combines ground beef, bacon, cheese, and noodles for ultimate satisfaction.

• Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour, with minimal dishes and maximum flavor.

• Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for family dinners, parties, potlucks, or meal prep.

• Customizable: It’s a base recipe that embraces your favorite cheeseburger flavors and toppings.

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2. Ingredient Breakdown & Why They Matter

Ingredient	Role / Function
1 lb ground beef (80/20)	Juicy, flavorful core protein
4–6 slices thick-cut bacon	Smoky crisp element and fat for flavor
8 oz pasta (elbow, penne, or cavatappi)	Carby base to soak up sauce
1 onion (small diced)	Sweet earthiness and texture
2 cloves garlic (minced)	Aromatic depth
1 cup beef broth	Adds savory body without thinning sauce
1 cup heavy cream or half‑and‑half	Creamy richness
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese	Cheesy, gooey satisfaction
½ cup grated Parmesan (optional)	Adds sharp, salty accent
2 Tbsp tomato paste	Provides savory burger-sauce flavor
2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce	Deep umami and "burger" essence
1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)	Burgery tang
Salt & pepper	Seasoning balance
1 Tbsp butter or oil	To sauté veggies
Optional garnishes/toggles: chopped pickles, diced tomato, shredded lettuce, sliced jalapeños, green onions, sesame seeds	Provide freshness, texture, and burger-accent flavors