Directions to follow
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. Add in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Next, stir in the ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Let this mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow those flavors to meld beautifully.
- While that’s simmering, boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Add the cooked macaroni into the skillet with the ground beef mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and the macaroni is coated in that tasty sauce.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is evenly distributed.
- Serve the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni hot, garnished with a little extra bacon and cheese if you want to go the extra mile!
Best ways to enjoy it
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni is a dish that shines on its own, but serving suggestions can elevate your dining experience. Consider garnishing each bowl with fresh chopped parsley for color and a hint of freshness. Pair it with a light side salad or some crunchy garlic bread to balance the richness of the pasta. For those looking for some zing, a dash of hot sauce can bring an exciting kick to each bite.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, portion the macaroni into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni turns out perfectly every time. First, don’t overcook the macaroni; you want it to be al dente since it will continue cooking when mixed with the warm skillet. Another tip is to keep a close eye on the heat while cooking the beef; too high of a temperature can lead to burn spots. Lastly, feel free to experiment with cheese! Adding a bit of cream cheese can make it even creamier.
Creative twists
There are plenty of ways to put your spin on Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni. Consider adding diced pickles for a tangy crunch, or swap out the cheddar for a pepper jack if you like a bit of heat. You could even introduce some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added veggies. For a healthier version, use whole-grain macaroni and lean ground turkey or beef alternatives.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time should take about 10 minutes, and with cooking, you’ll have dinner ready in approximately 30 minutes.
Can I substitute the macaroni?
Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or shells—just keep a similar cooking time in mind.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess or in the microwave. Just be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
By combining the familiar tastes of a cheeseburger with pasta, Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni promises to be a hit at your table. It checks all the boxes: simple, satisfying, and unbelievably delicious. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
