What makes Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac a crowd-pleasing dish?

This recipe combines the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger with creamy mac and cheese. It's a comfort food that kids and adults love. It's quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights or family gatherings.

Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can! Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use penne or ziti too. Each pasta changes the texture and sauce hold. Elbow macaroni holds sauce well, penne has more bite, and ziti is smooth. Pick what you like best.

How can I make a healthier version of Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac?

For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or turkey, and low-fat cheese. Add whole grain pasta and extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach. For a veggie option, use plant-based ground meat or beans.

Is this recipe truly a one-pot meal?

Yes! It's a one-pot meal that's easy to make. You cook the ground beef, sauce, and pasta in one pan. It's great for a quick, delicious meal without a lot of cleanup.

Can I prepare Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats well and can be made ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep it creamy. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar adds depth, and American cheese makes it creamy. Adding monterey jack can make the cheese sauce even richer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta like rice, corn, or chickpea flour. Make sure your beef broth and sauces are gluten-free too. It's easy to make gluten-free for those with sensitivities.

What are some creative topping ideas for this dish?

Try toppings like diced pickles, green onions, and crispy bacon bits. A drizzle of special sauce or crushed potato chips adds crunch. Diced tomatoes and parsley can also brighten the dish.

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac – Ultimate One-Pot Comfort (30 Min)

Name: Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Mac – Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner); 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped; 3 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded; 1 cup American cheese, diced; 1/2 cup Monterey Jack, shredded; Optional toppings: diced pickles, green onions, crispy fried onions

Description

A creamy one-pot pasta combining smoky bacon, seasoned ground beef, and a mix of cheeses for the ultimate comfort food dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)

6 slices crispy bacon, chopped

3 cups elbow macaroni

2 cups beef broth

1 cup tomato sauce

1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded

1 cup American cheese, diced

1/2 cup Monterey Jack, shredded

Optional toppings: diced pickles, green onions, crispy fried onions

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Instructions

1. Brown ground beef and chopped bacon in a large skillet.

2. Drain excess grease if needed.

3. Add pasta, beef broth, and tomato sauce to the skillet.

4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until pasta is tender.

5. Stir in cheeses until fully melted and creamy.

6. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

For a baked version, transfer to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

For a healthier option, substitute lean turkey or plant-based protein.

Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 20
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 580
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 85mg