Smoky Turkey Bacon & Cheesy Pasta Recipe for Busy Nights

Comfort food reaches new heights with this mouthwatering cheeseburger pasta with turkey bacon that combines the best of two classic favorites.

Creamy cheese sauce mingles with perfectly seasoned ground turkey, creating a delightful twist on traditional burger flavors.

Crispy turkey bacon adds a smoky crunch that elevates every single bite.

You love how quickly this one-pan meal comes together on busy weeknights.

The blend of pasta, meat, and cheese creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly light.

Each forkful delivers a burst of savory goodness that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

This recipe promises to become a new family dinner staple that’s sure to bring smiles and clean plates.

Why Cheeseburger Pasta With Turkey Bacon Tastes So Good

Savor Quick Comfort: Cheeseburger Pasta’s Irresistible Appeal

• Whip Up Effortless Meal: One-pot wonder that transforms classic cheeseburger flavors into a creamy, satisfying pasta dish without complicated cooking techniques.
• Customize Your Craving: Adaptable recipe allows easy ingredient swaps like ground chicken, different cheese types, or adding extra vegetables to match personal taste preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Solution: Kid-friendly and adult-approved meal that delivers familiar cheeseburger taste in a convenient, hearty pasta format perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
• Minimal Cleanup Magic: Single skillet preparation means less dishwashing, making this recipe a stress-free cooking experience that saves precious kitchen time and energy.

What’s in This Cheesy Turkey Bacon Pasta

• Ground Beef: A classic protein with rich flavor.
• Turkey Bacon: Crispy meat with a smoky touch.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty cheese for creamy goodness.
• Heavy Cream: Luxurious dairy for extra smoothness.

• Onion, Garlic: Flavor-packed base for depth.
• Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasoning and cooking foundation.

• Beef Broth, Diced Tomatoes: Juicy liquid for cooking pasta.
• Ketchup, Mustard: Classic burger-style flavor boosters.

• Pasta: Hearty base for the dish.
• Parsley or Chives: Fresh green garnish for brightness.

How to Make Cheeseburger Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Crisp the Turkey Bacon

Grab a large skillet and heat olive oil over medium heat.

Toss in chopped turkey bacon and cook until it turns golden and crunchy, about 4-5 minutes.

Transfer the sizzling bacon to a plate, keeping the flavorful oil in the pan.

Step 2: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

In the same skillet, add ground beef and break it apart while cooking.

Introduce diced onions and minced garlic, letting them dance together until the onions become soft and translucent.

Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to wake up those flavors.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

Drizzle in ketchup and mustard, creating a tangy foundation.

Pour beef broth and diced tomatoes into the skillet.

Add pasta and stir everything together, ensuring each ingredient gets cozy.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, then lower the heat.

Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for 10-12 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheesy Goodness

Once pasta reaches that dreamy al dente stage, sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese.

Stir until the cheese melts into a luxurious, creamy sauce.

For extra indulgence, swirl in some heavy cream.

Step 6: Reunite with Crispy Bacon

Reintroduce the crispy turkey bacon to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly into the creamy pasta.

Step 7: Serve and Devour

Shower the dish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh finish.

Scoop into bowls and prepare for a flavor explosion that combines the best of a cheeseburger and pasta in one incredible meal!

Turkey Bacon Pasta Cooking Tips to Know

• Experiment with ground chicken or lean ground beef for different flavor profiles without compromising the dish's heartiness.
• Remove the skillet from heat before adding cheese to prevent separation and ensure smooth, creamy texture.
• Cook turkey bacon on medium-low heat for even crispiness and prevent burning, giving perfect crunch every time.
• Skip heavy cream for lighter version or substitute with Greek yogurt for added protein and tangy flavor.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika to enhance the cheeseburger-inspired taste and kick up the heat.

How to Keep and Reheat Cheeseburger Pasta Right

• Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly.
• The creamy cheese and pasta texture may separate or become grainy when frozen, so it's best to enjoy this dish fresh or within a few days of preparation.

Great Pairings for This Cheesy Pasta Dish

• Elevate Wine Pairing: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the rich, meaty flavors and cut through the creamy cheese.
• Craft Beer Match: Choose a hoppy American Pale Ale or amber lager that balances the dish's savory profile with crisp, refreshing notes and enhances the smoky bacon undertones.
• Crowd-Pleasing Soda Companion: Opt for a classic cola or root beer to provide a sweet, carbonated contrast that highlights the cheeseburger-inspired taste and cleanses the palate between bites.
• Fresh Side Salad Boost: Prepare a light, tangy green salad with vinaigrette dressing to add brightness and cut through the richness of the pasta, creating a well-rounded meal experience.

Tasty Ways to Switch Up This Pasta Recipe

• Vegetarian Cheeseburger Pasta: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and swap turkey bacon for tempeh bacon or coconut bacon bits.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients like ketchup and mustard are certified gluten-free. Check labels carefully to prevent cross-contamination.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for protein boost and maintain creamy texture.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese shreds, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. Select plant-based milk alternatives that melt well.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat for a different flavor profile.

• Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The cheesy pasta and familiar cheeseburger flavors make it a hit with children and adults alike.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and ensure your other ingredients like broth and ketchup are gluten-free certified.

• How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or include some diced jalapeños when cooking the ground beef to give it a spicy kick.

Cheeseburger Pasta With Turkey Bacon Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cheeseburger pasta with turkey bacon delivers classic American comfort flavors in one skillet. Melted cheese, crispy bacon, and ground turkey mingle perfectly, creating a quick weeknight meal that satisfies serious hunger cravings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Base and Aromatics:

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta shells or elbow macaroni
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare a skillet or pot with olive oil over medium heat. Crisp the turkey bacon until golden and slightly crunchy, approximately 4-5 minutes. Transfer bacon to a separate plate, retaining the rendered oil in the pan.
2. Utilize the same skillet to brown the ground beef thoroughly, fragmenting the meat with a wooden spoon. Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and softened.
3. Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper. Introduce ketchup and mustard, stirring to create a rich, tangy base. Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices, ensuring a robust flavor profile.
4. Gently fold the uncooked pasta into the liquid mixture, guaranteeing each strand is evenly coated. Allow the contents to reach a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover the skillet.
5. Simmer the pasta for 10-12 minutes, stirring intermittently to prevent sticking. Verify the pasta has reached an ideal al dente consistency by testing a few strands.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and immediately integrate shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a smooth, creamy texture. Optional: Incorporate heavy cream for additional richness.
7. Reintroduce the crispy turkey bacon into the pasta, gently folding to distribute throughout the dish. Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives as a vibrant garnish before serving hot.

Notes

• Toast turkey bacon separately for extra crispiness and better texture control.
• Swap ground beef with plant-based alternatives for vegetarian version.
• Use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream to reduce calories.
• Choose whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutritional boost.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 580
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg