Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
1 lb ground beef
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for extra burger flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook Pasta: In a large pot, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook Onions & Garlic: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Create Sauce: Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add Cheese: Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the cooked pasta, ground beef, and ketchup (if using).
Add Bacon: Mix in half of the crumbled bacon, then sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon on top.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!

Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~600 kcal per serving