If you love the iconic flavors of a Big Mac but want to enjoy them in a comforting pasta dish, then you’re in for a treat! Our Big Mac Pasta recipe takes all the delicious elements of the beloved burger and transforms them into a hearty and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. With tender cavatappi noodles, seasoned ground beef, creamy Thousand Island dressing, and plenty of cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Join us as we dive into the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz cavatappi noodles
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced yellow onions
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 cup diced dill pickles
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Cavatappi Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet and cook them with the ground beef until they are softened and fragrant.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and onion powder, stirring to combine.
3. Assemble the Pasta Dish:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cavatappi noodles, seasoned ground beef mixture, Thousand Island dressing, and mayo. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated and evenly distributed.
- Add the diced dill pickles to the pasta mixture, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
4. Add the Toppings:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the cheese layer, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.
5. Bake the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Big Mac Pasta hot, garnished with additional diced pickles and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
- Enjoy the delicious flavors of this unique pasta dish with your family and friends!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Bun Crumble Topping: For an extra touch of authenticity, you can crumble up some toasted hamburger buns and sprinkle them over the top of the pasta before baking.
- Additional Toppings: Feel free to customize your Big Mac Pasta with additional toppings such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or chopped onions for added freshness and flavor.
- Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer for this recipe. Penne, rotini, or macaroni would all work well.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the pasta dish up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for the ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to taste.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the cavatappi noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Use a sugar-free Thousand Island dressing and mayo, and omit the breadcrumbs for a low-carb option.
- Low-Carb Variation: For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of pasta used or replace it with cauliflower florets. Use a sugar-free Thousand Island dressing and mayo, and omit the breadcrumbs.
In conclusion, our Big Mac Pasta recipe is a fun and flavorful twist on the classic fast food favorite. With its creamy Thousand Island dressing, seasoned ground beef, and cheesy topping, it’s a deliciously satisfying dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re craving the flavors of a Big Mac or simply looking for a new pasta recipe to try, this dish is sure to be a hit. So why wait? Give our recipe a try today and enjoy the taste of a beloved burger in pasta form!
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Big Mac Pasta tonight! For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to explore our website. If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!
Experience the savory goodness of our Big Mac Pasta recipe! Visit our website for more mouthwatering recipes and culinary inspiration. If you have any questions or feedback, don’t hesitate to contact us. Happy cooking!
