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This cheesy pasta skillet combines juicy ground beef, smoky bacon, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner. It comes together quickly and feels like a comforting meal after a busy day.
I first whipped this up when friends were coming over unexpectedly and it became an instant favorite. Now it’s a go-to when I want something tasty without much fuss.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: one pound provides hearty protein and a rich base
- Cooked pasta: two cups such as rotini or penne holds the sauce well
- Shredded cheddar cheese: one cup gives that creamy, melty texture
- Cooked bacon: half a cup crumbled adds smoky crunch and depth
- Milk: one cup helps create a smooth, luscious sauce
- Flour: quarter cup thickens the sauce to coat everything perfectly
- Ketchup: quarter cup adds subtle sweetness and tang
- Worcestershire sauce: one tablespoon brings savory umami notes
- Salt and pepper: to taste enhance all the flavors naturally
Choose fresh ground beef with good marbling for juiciness. Use sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese flavor. Crispy bacon is key here so cook it until golden.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Ground Beef:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until nicely cooked through and browned. Drain the excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy and allow the sauce to cling well to the meat.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef in the skillet. Stir thoroughly so the flour coats the meat and cooks out its raw flavor for about one minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, until a creamy sauce forms and starts to thicken.
- Season and Simmer the Sauce:
- Stir in the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further.
- Combine Pasta, Bacon, and Cheese:
- Add the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir well until the cheese melts completely and the sauce evenly coats the pasta and ingredients, creating a creamy, cheesy mixture.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. For extra indulgence, top with additional cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon before serving.
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My favorite part is how the smoky bacon flavor blends seamlessly into the creamy sauce. One night, my kids even asked for seconds without me prompting which is always a good sign.
Storage Tips
This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick. It does not freeze as well since the texture of the creamy sauce changes after freezing.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground turkey or chicken work if you want a leaner option, though the flavor will be milder.
- Gluten-free flour and pasta can be used to make this suitable for gluten sensitivities.
- Try swapping the cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A crisp pickle or tangy coleslaw also complements the smoky notes nicely. This skillet is great with a cold beer or even a glass of creamy milk for the kids.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Short pasta shapes like rotini or penne hold the creamy sauce well and are recommended for this skillet.
- → Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option, though it may yield a milder flavor.
- → How do I get the sauce to thicken properly?
Gradually whisk milk into the flour-coated browned beef and simmer gently until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce during seasoning can enhance the heat to your preference.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate it for up to a day; reheat gently on the stove, stirring to maintain creaminess.