Cheeseburger Pasta Bake

This cheeseburger pasta bake is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and comforting without a lot of fuss. It combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.

I first made this after craving something nostalgic but easy to throw together. It quickly became a favorite in our house for busy evenings when I want something filling and flavorful.

Ingredients

• Thick-cut bacon: adds smoky richness and a satisfying crunch. If you skip it, olive oil steps in to sauté the aromatics
• Onion and garlic: are essential for building a savory base. Use fresh and firm onions with no soft spots for the best flavor
• Lean ground beef: brings that classic cheeseburger flavor without too much grease. Pick a fresh ground beef with a nice deep red color
• Worcestershire sauce and ground dry mustard: add tang and depth, so make sure your spices are fresh for maximum punch
• Prego®+ Hidden with Super Veggies jar sauce: boosts flavor and sneaks in extra veggies. Choose a vibrant jar with no added sugars if possible
• Elbow macaroni: works well because it holds on to sauce and bakes nicely. Look for pasta that feels firm and breaks cleanly rather than crumbling
• Cheddar cheese: melts beautifully on top for gooey cheesy goodness. Pick a sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor
• Chopped parsley and extra onions: provide a fresh finish and a pop of color if you want to garnish

Instructions

Build The Flavor Base:

Cook bacon in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat until crisp for smoky depth. Remove and crumble, leaving about a tablespoon of fat to cook the veggies. If not using bacon, pour olive oil in the skillet, heat over medium, then sauté chopped onions for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Add minced garlic and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning and to bring out its aroma.

Brown The Beef and Layer The Flavors:

Add lean ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until no longer pink. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper evenly to season the meat deeply. Next, pour in the jar of Prego®+ Hidden with Super Veggies and mix everything so the sauce clings to the beef and veggies perfectly.

Combine Pasta And Start Baking:

Stir in the dried elbow macaroni and pour 2 cups of water into the skillet. Mix thoroughly to distribute pasta evenly through the sauce and beef mixture. Bring everything just to a boil then remove from heat. Cover the skillet with a lid or tightly with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 20 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce.

Add The Cheesy Finish:

Remove the skillet from the oven and carefully take off the lid or foil. Stir the mixture well to separate any pasta sticking together. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top then add the crumbled bacon if using. Return the skillet to the oven, uncovered, for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Serve hot garnished with more chopped onion and parsley if you like.

Cheddar cheese is my secret ingredient here since it melts perfectly and adds sharp, creamy flavor to balance the savory beef and sauce. This dish always reminds me of family dinners growing up where cheeseburgers were a weekend treat, and this bake gives that same comfort but with an easy pasta twist.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat covered gently in the microwave or oven to keep the cheese melty. If it seems dry when reheating, splash a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This bake also freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Swaps

Ground turkey or chicken work if you prefer white meat but the flavor will be milder so add extra mustard or Worcestershire for punch. You can swap elbow macaroni with any small pasta such as shells or rotini. For cheese, try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for creaminess with stretch. If avoiding processed pasta sauces, make your own with crushed tomatoes and sautéed veggies.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness. Add steamed broccoli or roasted carrots on the side for extra veggies. This dish is hearty enough to be the star but pairs well with a light slaw or garlic bread for a classic comfort meal.

Seasonal Twists

In fall or winter, stir in cooked diced mushrooms or bell peppers with the onions for extra depth. Use smoked paprika or chili flakes if you want a little warmth. In summer, fresh herbs like basil or oregano tossed on top after baking add brightness. For a spring touch, stir in fresh peas or chopped spinach before baking.

This bake combines comfort and simplicity in every bite, making weeknight meals a joy. Enjoy the melty cheese and hearty flavors with your loved ones around the table.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can bacon be omitted or replaced?

Yes, olive oil can be used instead to sauté the onions and garlic, providing a lighter base flavor while keeping the dish moist and savory.

→ What pasta works best for this bake?

Elbow macaroni is preferred due to its size and shape, which holds the sauce well and bakes evenly with other ingredients.

→ How can I ensure the cheese melts perfectly?

Adding the shredded cheddar after the initial bake and returning the dish to the oven a short time uncovered helps create a creamy, melted topping.

→ Is it possible to prepare this in advance?

Yes, the mixture can be combined and kept refrigerated before baking. Bake when ready, adding cheese towards the end to maintain freshness.

→ What seasonings enhance the beef flavor here?

Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper are used to deepen and balance the savory profile of the ground beef in this dish.