Easy Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake Recipe For Families

Comfort food takes a delightful twist with this turkey bacon cheeseburger noodle bake that combines hearty flavors in one satisfying dish.

Lean ground turkey brings a healthier spin to the classic cheeseburger concept.

Crispy bacon pieces add a smoky crunch that elevates every single bite.

Cheesy noodles create a creamy foundation that melts perfectly with the savory meat.

Each forkful promises a burst of familiar burger-inspired tastes without the traditional bun.

Weeknight dinners just got more exciting with this crowd-pleasing casserole that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Dig into a meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

What Makes Cheeseburger Noodle Bake a Hit

• Conquer Comfort Food Cravings: Indulge in a mouthwatering casserole that combines the classic cheeseburger flavors with comforting pasta, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies deep hunger pangs.
• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Whip up this easy one-dish wonder with minimal prep and straightforward ingredients, making dinner preparation a breeze for busy home cooks looking for a delicious solution.
• Customize with Creativity: Swap ingredients or add personal twists like extra bacon, different cheese blends, or optional toppings to make this recipe uniquely yours while keeping the core flavor profile intact.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Designed to please both kids and adults, this cheesy noodle bake transforms familiar burger flavors into a wholesome, exciting meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

• Ground Beef: Rich and meaty base for the casserole.
• Turkey Bacon: Crispy and smoky flavor enhancer.
• Onion: Adds depth and subtle sweetness.

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape with perfect curves.

• Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Melty and creamy cheese blend.

• Ketchup, Mustard: Tangy flavor boosters.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Aromatic seasoning helpers.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers.

• Milk: Smooth and creamy binding ingredient.

How to Bake This Comforting Noodle Dish

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F.

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Fill a pot with water, sprinkle in some salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.

Drop in elbow macaroni and cook until it’s perfectly tender.

Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Grab a large skillet and heat it up.

Toss in ground beef and break it into delicious crumbly bits while cooking.

• Ground beef
• Chopped onion

Add onions and cook until they’re soft and fragrant.

Drain any extra fat from the skillet.

Step 4: Add Flavor Boosters

• Crumbled turkey bacon
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Let everything simmer and get friendly for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Mix Pasta and Meat

Grab a big mixing bowl and combine the cooked macaroni with your flavorful meat mixture.

Pour in milk and mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Build the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish.

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes.

Scoop out generous portions and savor the cheesy, meaty goodness!

Tips for a Cheesy, Savory Noodle Bake

• Rinse pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent mushy noodles from ruining your dish's texture.
• Mix ground beef with turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner protein option that still delivers rich, smoky taste without excessive greasiness.
• Shred cheese fresh from the block for better melting and more even coverage across the casserole, ensuring every bite is creamy and delicious.
• Adjust garlic and onion powder quantities to match your taste preferences, making the dish more personalized and flavorful.
• Add a splash extra milk if mixture seems too dry before baking, guaranteeing a moist and creamy final result that isn't tough or hard.

Keeping Cheeseburger Pasta Fresh and Tasty

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, cover dish with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes for crispy cheese top.
• Place individual portions in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

Side Pairings for This Pasta Bake

• Perfect Beverage Match: Crisp Craft Beer
• Select a hoppy pale ale or amber lager that cuts through the rich, cheesy flavors and complements the savory turkey bacon notes. The beer's carbonation will refresh your palate between bites.
• Refreshing Wine Pairing: Light Red
• Choose a medium-bodied pinot noir or zinfandel with moderate tannins that won't overpower the dish's complex flavors. Its subtle fruitiness will balance the hearty meat and cheese combination.
• Comfort Side Companion: Fresh Green Salad
• Toss a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to provide a crisp, light contrast against the heavy, creamy casserole. The acidic dressing will help cut through the richness and add brightness to the meal.
• Tasty Garnish Boost: Fresh Herbs
• Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top of the baked dish to add a fresh, vibrant element that lifts the overall flavor profile and introduces a pop of color to the presentation.

Fun Twists on Cheeseburger Noodle Casserole

• Gluten-Free Friendly Version: Replace elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils, and use vegetarian bacon alternatives made from soy or mushrooms.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, and use a low-carb ketchup substitute to maintain the burger-like flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like cashew or almond-based shreds, and replace milk with unsweetened almond or coconut milk for a creamy texture.

FAQs

• Is turkey bacon healthier than regular bacon?

Turkey bacon is generally lower in calories and fat compared to traditional pork bacon, making it a lighter protein option for those watching their diet.

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Elbow macaroni works best, but you can substitute with similar short pasta like shells or rotini to maintain the casserole’s texture and consistency.

• How can I make this dish more spicy?

Add some red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture to increase the heat level and give the casserole an extra kick.

• What are good side dishes to serve with this casserole?

A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a light coleslaw complement the rich and cheesy flavors of this turkey bacon cheeseburger noodle bake.

Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Noodle Bake Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Comforting turkey bacon cheeseburger noodle bake delivers hearty midwestern flavors in one delicious casserole. Cheese-covered noodles and savory meat create a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners and weekend gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 4 strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled

Cheese and Dairy:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk

Pasta and Seasonings:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni in generously salted water until it reaches a tender al dente texture, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. Place a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it into small, uniform crumbles. As the meat browns, add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft.
4. Drain any excess grease from the meat mixture to reduce unnecessary fat content. Incorporate crumbled turkey bacon into the skillet, introducing a smoky flavor profile.
5. Season the meat mixture with ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the ingredients to simmer and meld together for 4-5 minutes, developing rich, complex flavors.
6. Transfer the seasoned meat to a spacious mixing bowl. Add the cooked macaroni and milk, gently stirring to ensure even coating and distribution of ingredients.
7. Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a consistent layer. Sprinkle a generous blend of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses across the top.
8. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for the cheese to melt completely and develop a golden, bubbly surface.
9. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to settle and the casserole to firm up slightly before serving.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option that reduces overall fat content.
• Create a gluten-free version by using alternative pasta like chickpea or lentil noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• For vegetarian adaptation, replace meat with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for similar texture and umami flavor profile.
• Control sodium levels by using low-sodium turkey bacon and reducing added salt, making the dish more heart-healthy without compromising taste.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 445
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg