Irresistible Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta Recipe

A classic loaded cheeseburger Alfredo pasta brings comfort food to spectacular new heights.

Crispy bacon bits and juicy ground beef elevate this creamy dish beyond ordinary expectations.

Melted cheese creates an irresistible blanket of deliciousness across tender pasta noodles.

Unexpected flavor combinations dance across your palate with each incredible bite.

Sharp cheddar and rich Alfredo sauce merge in perfect harmony.

Multiple textures guarantee an exciting meal that satisfies deep hunger cravings.

You won’t be able to resist diving fork-first into this decadent culinary creation.

FAQs

• What type of ground beef works best for this recipe?

Choose lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) for the best flavor and texture. Avoid very lean meat as it can become dry during cooking.

• Can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, most kids love this cheesy pasta dish. The familiar flavors of cheeseburger and pasta make it appealing to children and adults alike.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use ground turkey instead of beef, choose whole wheat pasta, and substitute some cream with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and increase protein.

Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

• Savor Comfort Food Fusion: Blend classic cheeseburger flavors with creamy pasta for a mouthwatering twist that satisfies comfort food cravings.
• Master Quick Family Dinner: Prepare a hearty meal in less than half an hour, perfect for busy weeknights when everyone wants something delicious and filling.
• Customize Your Culinary Creation: Easily adapt the recipe by adding or removing ingredients like pickles, ketchup, or mustard to match individual taste preferences and make it your own.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup with a single-pan cooking method that streamlines preparation and reduces dishwashing time.

Ingredients for Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo

• Pasta: A hearty foundation for this creamy, meaty dish.

• Ground Beef: A rich and savory protein that adds depth to the pasta.
• Onions, Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that provide a flavorful base for the sauce.

• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and smooth base for the Alfredo sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Provide a rich, melty, and tangy flavor profile to the sauce.
• Smoked Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Ketchup, Mustard: Condiments that add a tangy and slightly sweet dimension to the sauce.
• Pickles: Provide a crisp and zesty contrast to the creamy pasta.

• Fresh Parsley: A bright and fresh herb that adds color and a light herbal note to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the ground beef and sautéing aromatics.
• Pasta Water: A starchy liquid that helps adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Cooking Guide for Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Drop the pasta into the boiling water and cook until tender but still slightly firm.

Drain the pasta, keeping a small cup of the starchy water for later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Toss in the ground beef and break it into small crumbles while cooking. Once the meat turns a rich golden brown, drain off any extra fat.

Step 3: Awaken the Aromatics

In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic. Let them dance around the pan until they become soft and release their fragrant aroma.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir and let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

• Cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Stir until the cheeses melt into a smooth, velvety sauce. Add a splash of ketchup and mustard for an extra flavor kick.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Combine the cooked pasta and beef with the cheesy sauce. Toss everything until well coated.

If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Final Touches

Fold in chopped pickles for a tangy crunch.

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!

Tips for Creamy Alfredo Pasta

• Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, ensuring a perfectly silky texture that clings to every noodle.
• Cook ground beef over medium-high heat to develop a delicious caramelized crust, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Reduce heat when adding cheese to prevent separation, creating a smooth and velvety Alfredo sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Sauté onions and garlic before adding cream to build depth and release their aromatic essential oils, elevating the entire dish's taste.
• If sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to thin it out, maintaining the perfect creamy consistency without losing flavor intensity.

Flavor Variations for Cheeseburger Alfredo

• Spicy Buffalo Cheeseburger Pasta: Replace ketchup with buffalo sauce and add red pepper flakes for a fiery kick. Swap cheddar with pepper jack cheese to enhance heat.
• Vegetarian Mushroom Alfredo Version: Substitute ground beef with sautéed cremini or portobello mushrooms. Use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Option: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles. Reduce cooking time and ensure zucchini remains slightly firm. Perfect for keto dieters.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Pasta Variation: Add crumbled feta cheese, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh oregano. Use Greek yogurt to lighten the Alfredo sauce while maintaining creaminess.

Pairings That Complement Loaded Alfredo Pasta

Pair this hearty pasta with a crisp amber ale or hoppy IPA that cuts through the rich, creamy sauce and complements the beef’s robust flavor.

Select a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Zinfandel to balance the pasta’s richness and enhance its meaty, cheesy profile.

Create a tangy arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the heavy, decadent pasta dish.

Serve chilled dill pickle spears or a pickle-based cocktail to echo the pickles in the recipe and add a bright, acidic counterpoint.

Proper Storage for Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

• Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before covering to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer pasta to freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing if using fresh pickles.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of milk or water to restore moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little cream or milk to revive the sauce's creamy texture. Stir gently to prevent sticking and maintain pasta's original consistency.

Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty “Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta” combines classic burger flavors with creamy pasta perfection. Rich beef, melted cheese, and silky sauce create a comforting meal that satisfies your deepest cravings in one delicious dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef

Main Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340g) penne or rotini pasta
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot with salt. Cook pasta according to package instructions until perfectly tender. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water, and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown ground beef, breaking into crumbly pieces. Drain excess fat and transfer beef to a separate plate.
3. In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until aromatic and softened.
4. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, bringing to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Lower heat and gradually incorporate cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until completely melted and sauce becomes silky smooth. Stir in ketchup and mustard for extra flavor.
6. Reintroduce cooked ground beef and pasta into the creamy sauce. Gently toss to ensure even coating. If sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Fold in chopped pickles for a tangy crunch.
8. Transfer to serving bowls, garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread.

Notes

• Pasta Selection: Choose short pasta shapes like penne or rotini for better sauce-holding capability and easier eating experience.
• Meat Preparation: Drain beef thoroughly to prevent greasy sauce and ensure a cleaner, more concentrated flavor profile.
• Cheese Melting Trick: Grate cheeses freshly and add gradually while stirring to prevent clumping and create smoother, silkier sauce texture.
• Dietary Modification: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles for vegetarian version or use ground turkey for leaner protein option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 766 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 52 g
• Saturated Fat: 24 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 39 g
• Cholesterol: 135 mg