Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Bacon and Beef:

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the bacon fat. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and drain any excess fat.

3. Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly.

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the ketchup, mustard, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine and Finish:

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and combined. Fold in the sour cream for a creamy texture.

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring gently to combine and coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Serve:

Transfer the Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with crispy bacon, additional shredded cheese, and chopped pickles if desired. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality bacon and ground beef for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the ketchup, mustard, and seasoning amounts to match your taste preferences.
• Add Vegetables: For a touch of freshness, consider adding finely chopped tomatoes or bell peppers to the sauce.

This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta recipe combines the hearty satisfaction of a burger with the creamy comfort of pasta, creating a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends, and savor the perfect blend of indulgence and satisfaction!