This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a fun twist on two favorites! Creamy Alfredo sauce meets hearty pasta, all topped with tasty cheeseburger flavors like ground beef and melted cheese.
You might even want to make it a family tradition—everyone will want second helpings! I love adding a sprinkle of crispy bacon on top for that extra yum factor. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This corkscrew-shaped pasta is great at holding onto the sauce. If you can’t find rotini, feel free to use fusilli, penne, or any short pasta you like!
Ground Beef: I usually opt for 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and moisture. You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a healthier or vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its richness. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead, or a mix of milk and cream if you have both on hand. For dairy-free, try coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative.
Cheeses: Parmesan and cheddar are staples here! Instead of Parmesan, you might use Pecorino Romano. For cheddar, feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack for an extra creamy flavor!
How Do I Make the Perfect Alfredo Sauce?
The key to a silky and smooth Alfredo sauce is temperature control and patience. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with the heat at medium, adding the butter and allowing it to melt without browning.
- Add heavy cream gradually while stirring constantly to prevent it from scorching.
- Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat and slowly stir in the cheeses until completely melted, avoiding any lumps. This creates that creamy texture.
- Mix in pasta while everything is still warm to help it absorb the flavor!
Slightly adjusting your cooking time and watching the temperature can make all the difference! Enjoy your cooking!
Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for freshness)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. Just enough time to have a hearty dinner ready and enjoy with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This will build a tasty base for your dish!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces. Cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you’re using diced tomatoes, stir them in once the beef is browned.
4. Reserve Some Beef:
Once your beef is cooked, remove half of it from the skillet and set it aside. This will be used as a topping for later!
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet with the remaining beef, add the butter, heavy cream, and whole milk. Let it come to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the Cheeses:
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth and creamy—this is the magic of making Alfredo sauce!
7. Combine with Pasta:
Now, it’s time for the pasta! Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the noodles are fully coated in that wonderful cheesy sauce.
8. Serve:
Plate the pasta in bowls, and then top each serving with the reserved beef mixture you set aside earlier.
9. Add the Final Touch:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the beef and pasta for an extra cheesy finish. If you want to take it up a notch, you can put it under a broiler for about 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt and slightly brown.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this decadent Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta that combines the best flavors of a juicy cheeseburger with creamy, cheesy pasta!
FAQ About Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just be sure to maintain the seasoning to keep the flavor up. You may need to add a bit more oil if it seems dry while cooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sauté some mushrooms and bell peppers to add depth of flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of heavy cream for the sauce for a tasty vegetarian version!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently with a bit of added cream or milk for the best results.
