The holiday season is all about indulgence, flavor, and creating memorable meals. If you’re looking to serve a combination of savory and sweet dishes that will wow your guests, look no further than Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta and Christmas Snickerdoodles. This dynamic duo brings together the comfort of a hearty pasta dish with the warmth of festive cookies, making it an unforgettable holiday feast.
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta: A Hearty Holiday Favorite
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is a mouthwatering blend of all the flavors you love from a classic cheeseburger, but served in a creamy pasta form. Perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging with family on a cozy winter evening, it’s a filling and delicious dish that combines the smoky goodness of bacon, savory beef, and a cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of bacon grease in the pan for flavor.
- Sauté the beef: In the same skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add onions and garlic: To the beef, add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Build the sauce: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and seasonings (paprika, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper). Stir until everything is well combined.
- Mix in the pasta and cheese: Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese has melted and the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Top with bacon: Before serving, sprinkle the crispy bacon on top of the dish for an extra crunch and savory flavor.
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta is the perfect combination of rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a great centerpiece for any holiday gathering or family dinner.
Christmas Snickerdoodles: A Sweet Touch to Your Holiday Feast
No holiday meal is complete without a little something sweet, and Christmas Snickerdoodles are a festive classic that never fails to delight. These soft, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookies are perfect for the season, with their warm and comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar, for rolling
- 2 tsp cinnamon, for rolling
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Shape the cookies: In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar for rolling. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake the cookies: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
- Cool and enjoy: Allow the snickerdoodles to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Christmas Snickerdoodles are soft, chewy, and bursting with cinnamon flavor. They make the perfect holiday treat, whether you’re enjoying them as an after-dinner dessert or leaving them out for Santa Claus!
Why These Dishes Are Holiday Must-Haves
- Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta brings together all the savory flavors that everyone loves from a classic cheeseburger, transforming it into a cozy pasta dish that’s perfect for the colder months. The addition of bacon and cheddar makes it even more indulgent, while the creamy sauce ties everything together for a comforting meal.
- Christmas Snickerdoodles are a timeless cookie that adds a touch of nostalgia and holiday cheer to any table. Their cinnamon-sugar coating and soft, chewy texture make them an irresistible treat that embodies the spirit of the season.
Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner, having a cozy night in, or bringing a dish to a holiday party, these two recipes are sure to be the stars of your holiday meal. Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta offers a savory, hearty option, while Christmas Snickerdoodles provide the sweet finish that everyone loves.
Serving and Storage Tips for Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta & Christmas Snickerdoodles
To get the most out of your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta and Christmas Snickerdoodles, it’s important to know the best ways to serve and store these dishes. Here are some helpful tips for keeping them fresh and ensuring they taste just as delicious when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Serving Tips
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta:
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top your pasta with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. You can also add a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a drizzle of hot sauce for an additional layer of flavor.
- Pair with Sides: Serve your pasta with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also make excellent accompaniments.
- Keep Warm: If you’re serving the pasta for a gathering, consider placing it in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting or covering the dish with foil to retain heat for longer periods.
Christmas Snickerdoodles:
- Presentation: Arrange the freshly baked snickerdoodles on a festive plate, and consider dusting them with a light sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar right before serving for a special touch.
- Perfect Pairing: These cookies go wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, hot cocoa, or coffee. Serve them at a holiday dessert table or alongside a cold glass of milk for a nostalgic treat.
- Store in an Attractive Jar: For an added holiday touch, store the snickerdoodles in a beautiful glass jar or cookie tin as part of your holiday decor, making them easy to grab and serve.
Storage Tips
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The creamy sauce will keep the pasta moist, but it’s best consumed within this time frame for the freshest taste.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well if you want to make a large batch ahead of time. Store the pasta in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm up in a pan with a little additional cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick. Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure an even reheating.
Christmas Snickerdoodles:
- Room Temperature Storage: Store snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Be sure to separate the cookies with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Freezing for Later: Snickerdoodles freeze beautifully! To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough and bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
- Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, you can reheat them by placing them in a preheated 350°F oven for 2-3 minutes or microwaving them for about 10-15 seconds.
Additional Tips
- Pasta Tip: If you’re making the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta in advance, undercook the pasta slightly by a minute or two, so it doesn’t become mushy when reheating.
- Cookie Tip: For a festive variation, consider adding a touch of nutmeg or cloves to the snickerdoodle dough to enhance the holiday flavor.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that both your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta and Christmas Snickerdoodles stay fresh and delicious, whether you’re serving them right away or enjoying leftovers later. Enjoy your holiday season with these comforting, flavorful dishes!
1. Can I make Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta ahead of time! You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce in advance, then store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and sauce together in a pan, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture. The bacon can be added just before serving for a crispy finish.
2. How can I make Christmas Snickerdoodles softer?
To ensure your Christmas Snickerdoodles are soft and chewy, avoid overbaking them. They should be slightly undercooked when you take them out of the oven—around 10 minutes—so they stay soft as they cool. Also, consider using room-temperature butter, as this helps create a softer texture. You can also store the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain their moisture.
3. Can I freeze Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta?
Yes, Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. After cooking, let the pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove with a little extra cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
4. Can I make Christmas Snickerdoodles without cream of tartar?
Yes, if you don’t have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder. However, using cream of tartar is traditional as it helps the cookies rise and gives them their signature texture. If you’re substituting with baking powder, use 2 tsp of baking powder for every 1 tsp of cream of tartar. The cookies will still be delicious, though the texture may be slightly different.
PrintLoaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta combines all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger into a comforting pasta dish. It’s packed with savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and creamy cheddar cheese, making it a family favorite for dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
8 oz (225g) pasta (such as penne or rotini)
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, chopped pickles, shredded lettuce
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
Brown the Beef:
In the same skillet, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic.
Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
Drain any excess fat.
Make the Sauce:
Stir in the beef broth, heavy cream, ketchup, and mustard.
Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it with the sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve:
Top with the crispy bacon pieces.
Garnish with optional toppings like diced tomatoes, chopped pickles, or shredded lettuce if desired.
Serve warm.
Notes
For added flavor, consider sautéing bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef.
You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack if preferred.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.