Description
A cozy, rich pasta dish that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a creamy, saucy meal perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces short pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices smoked beef bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup dill pickle chips, chopped
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package directions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Crisp the bacon: In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Sauté aromatics: In the skillet with a tablespoon of bacon fat, add the onion and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Build the sauce: Stir in tomato paste and Dijon, then pour in broth and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth, then add shredded cheddar slowly, stirring to melt.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta, peas (if using), and most of the crisp bacon to the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.
- Finish and garnish: Stir in chopped pickles for that cheeseburger tang. Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with remaining bacon and chopped chives before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, use sharp cheddar and reserve pasta water for binding. Various adaptations available for gluten-free or vegetarian options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American