Description
Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a rich and creamy one-pot meal that combines the hearty flavors of a cheeseburger with tender pasta and an indulgent Alfredo-style cheese sauce. Packed with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, and topped with fresh tomatoes and pickles, this dish offers a comforting and satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow)
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Sauces and Cheeses
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Toppings and Garnishes
- 4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 1 small tomato (diced)
- ¼ cup dill pickles (chopped)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Add condiments: Stir in ketchup and yellow mustard with the beef, mixing well to incorporate the flavors. Reduce the heat to low to prepare for the sauce.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk along with the cream cheese if using. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Melt the cheeses: Gradually add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt fully into a creamy sauce.
- Combine pasta and bacon: Fold the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon into the cheese sauce, mixing well so the pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Finish with toppings: Remove the skillet from heat and top the pasta with diced tomatoes, chopped dill pickles, and chopped parsley for a fresh, flavorful finish. Serve hot immediately for best taste.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a different protein option.
- For added flavor, sauté onions or jalapeños along with the ground beef.
- For a casserole-style dish, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
