Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

If you’re craving the unbeatable flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger but want something a little more comforting and family-friendly, this Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is your new go-to. Combining hearty ground beef, smoky turkey bacon, and a melty blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, all baked with tender penne pasta in a savory tomato sauce, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry crowd with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake captures all the deliciousness of your favorite burger in a cozy casserole form. Here’s why it’s a winner every time:

• Balanced flavors: The savory beef and turkey bacon bring deep, meaty richness, while the mustard and Worcestershire sauce add a subtle tang and umami boost without overpowering.
• Cheesy goodness: A combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates a luscious, gooey topping that melts perfectly over the pasta.
• One-pot convenience: You cook the beef, bacon, and aromatics in one pan, then combine everything in a baking dish for an easy cleanup.
• Customizable: This recipe is a great base to add your favorite veggies or swap cheeses, making it versatile for any taste.
• Comfort food at its best: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Gather These Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold on to the sauce and cheese.
• 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty, meaty flavor and protein.
• 4 oz turkey bacon, chopped: Adds smoky, crispy texture without overpowering the dish.
• 1 small onion, diced: For sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts savory notes with aromatic warmth.
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Creates a juicy, flavorful base for the sauce.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds richness and helps meld the sauce together.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and tangy, essential for cheeseburger flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey texture.
• 1 tbsp mustard: Adds that classic cheeseburger tang.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (non-alcoholic): Deepens umami without adding alcohol.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season to perfection.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh note.

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Large skillet: To cook the ground beef, turkey bacon, and aromatics.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Baking dish (about 9×13 inches): For assembling and baking the pasta bake.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: To stir the ingredients together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To measure out broth, cheese, and seasonings precisely.

Directions: Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped turkey bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. In the same skillet with the rendered bacon fat, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Return the turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly reduce the liquid.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. If your skillet isn’t ovenproof, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Seasonal Adaptations

• Spring: Add fresh peas or diced asparagus for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Summer: Stir in chopped fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers to enhance the tomato flavor.
• Fall: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for earthiness.
• Winter: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for warmth and depth.

Cook’s Commentary

This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is one of those recipes that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together. I love that it uses turkey bacon, which crisps up nicely and pairs perfectly with the ground beef’s richness. The mustard and Worcestershire sauce give a subtle tang that really makes the flavors pop without stealing the spotlight. If you’re a fan of gooey baked pasta dishes, you’ll also want to check out my Baked Cheesy Ravioli With Marinara or the Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta for more crowd-pleasing casseroles. For an even cheesier twist, the Baked Four Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups are a must-try.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.
• Freeze: This pasta bake freezes well for up to 2 months. Freeze in a freezer-safe container before baking or after baking and cooling.
• Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Microwave reheating works for single servings.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular bacon if you prefer. Just cook it until crispy and drain the excess fat before adding the onions and garlic. It will add a richer, smokier flavor.

What can I substitute for the Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar umami boost. Just be mindful of the salt content and adjust accordingly.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Make sure to cook the penne pasta just until al dente and drain it well before mixing with the sauce. Baking time is also important—don’t overbake, as the pasta will continue to soften in the oven.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef and turkey bacon with plant-based meat alternatives, mushrooms, or a combination of sautéed vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for the sauce.

Weekend Projects

• Baked Cheesy Ravioli With Marinara – Dive into a cheesy, comforting pasta bake to expand your casserole repertoire.
• Cheesy Baked Buffalo Chicken Pasta – Spice things up with a buffalo chicken twist that’s perfect for game day.
• Baked Four Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups – Elevate your pasta game with this elegant, cheesy lasagna alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is everything you want in a comforting, cheesy dinner that’s both easy and satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers big on flavor and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Share on Pinterest