Description
Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a comforting skillet dish that combines classic cheeseburger flavors with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender pasta, and savory ground beef. This American-inspired recipe features a rich blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, tangy mustard and ketchup, and optional additions like dill pickles and crispy bacon for an extra punch of flavor. Perfect for a family-friendly main course ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz pasta (rotini or penne work well)
- 1 lb ground beef
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
- 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to be added later into the sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release fragrance.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper, then cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the pan if necessary.
- Add Condiments: Stir in the yellow mustard and ketchup into the cooked beef mixture to infuse classic cheeseburger flavors.
- Create Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the cheesy sauce. Toss everything well to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, stir in chopped dill pickles and cooked bacon pieces for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to heat through evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish the pasta with fresh parsley or chopped green onions before serving hot.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
- For a leaner option, swap ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute.
- This dish reheats well and makes delicious leftovers for the next day.
