Description
A rich and indulgent Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta that combines ground beef, creamy cheeses, and a flavorful sauce with classic cheeseburger seasonings. This hearty pasta dish is topped with pickles, crispy bacon bits, and fresh parsley for that perfect cheeseburger flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter
Garnishes
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside for later use.
- Brown Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, breaking up the meat frequently, until the beef is thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Liquids and Flavorings: To the skillet with the beef, add butter, heavy cream, and beef broth. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix everything together to combine the flavors.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the cheese sauce and beef. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. Allow it to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped pickles, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chopped parsley evenly over the top of the pasta for a vibrant and crunchy finish.
- Serve: Dish out the pasta while hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors reminiscent of a loaded cheeseburger.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer before adding the pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
