Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Stir until browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced bacon and onion to the skillet. Cook until the bacon is crisp and the onion becomes translucent.
- While the meat mixture cooks, prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In the skillet, combine the cooked pasta with the beef, bacon, onions, and Montreal steak seasoning. Stir everything until well mixed.
- Transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish and generously top it with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Carefully take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving this Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake, the possibilities are endless. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully to balance out the richness of the dish. For an extra touch, consider serving it with garlic bread on the side or even a scoop of pickles on top for that iconic burger feel!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing leftovers will keep your delicious bake ready for future meals! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and it can last up to three months. Always remember to reheat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Helpful cooking tips
For optimal flavor, don’t skip the step of browning your ground beef and bacon together. This combination creates a perfect foundation for the dish’s unique taste. Additionally, if you want to mix things up, try adding diced tomatoes or jalapeños into the pasta mixture for an extra kick.
Creative twists
This recipe is versatile, and you can easily customize it based on your taste preferences. If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, consider using pepper jack cheese or adding chopped green chilies. You could even explore different pasta shapes, like rigatoni or farfalle, to give a fun twist to the presentation!
Common questions
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Bake typically takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake, making it a quick weeknight favorite!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even vegetarian meat alternatives for a lighter or meat-free option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times according to your choice!
By following this guide, you’ll be set to create an unforgettable meal that captures all the fun of a cheeseburger in pasta form. Enjoy!
