Save A hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole that captures all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger in a creamy, cheesy pasta bake.
I first made this pasta bake for a casual weeknight dinner and was amazed at how much it tasted like a cheeseburger in every bite. Everyone reached for seconds and it became an instant family favorite.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (e.g., penne, rotini, or macaroni)
- Thick-cut bacon: 8 oz (225 g), diced
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), 80/20 recommended
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup (150 g), halved (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained)
- Dill pickles: 1/4 cup (60 g), chopped
- Whole milk: 2 cups (480 ml)
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp (16 g)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp (28 g)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115 g) + 1/2 cup (60 g) for topping
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (115 g)
- Ketchup: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Yellow mustard: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
- Worcestershire sauce: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional): 2 tbsp (8 g), for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook pasta:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat cook the bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving some bacon fat in the pan.
- Brown beef:
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Saute onion and garlic:
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
- Add tomatoes & condiments:
- Stir in tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes. Add ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Make cheese sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook, stirring, until slightly thickened (about 3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
- Combine components:
- Combine cooked pasta, meat mixture, chopped pickles, most of the bacon (reserve some for topping), and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Assemble and top:
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar and reserved bacon.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and serve:
- Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes, and garnish with chives or green onions if desired. Serve hot.
Save This dish brings everyone to the table with smiles, and leftovers (if any) are always fought over the next day!
Recipe Variations
Try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or a swirl of barbecue sauce for a delicious twist. For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed potato chips over the top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp salad and pickles for a true burger night experience, or pair with roasted veggies and your favorite cold drink.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
Save 
This comforting casserole is the best way to enjoy cheeseburger night with minimal fuss. Dig in and savor every cheesy, bacon-filled bite!
Cooking Guide
- → What pasta types work best for this bake?
Short pastas like penne, rotini, or macaroni hold sauce well and maintain texture during baking.
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Yes, ground turkey works well for a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do pickles influence the dish's flavor?
Chopped dill pickles add a tangy contrast that balances the rich, cheesy elements.
- → What is the purpose of the cheese sauce?
The cheddar and mozzarella blend creates a creamy, gooey layer that binds the ingredients and enhances richness.
- → Can I prepare the bake ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate before baking; add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.