Description
A decadent and flavorful Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta combining the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the savory goodness of cheeseburger ingredients. This recipe features ground beef, cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, and a blend of spices, all tossed with your choice of pasta for a comforting and indulgent meal.
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
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
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles
- 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to be added later.
- Brown the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until browned thoroughly, stirring frequently. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Make the sauce base: To the same skillet, add butter, heavy cream, and beef broth. Stir these ingredients together over medium heat to combine well.
- Season the sauce: Mix in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly to melt the cheeses and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing thoroughly to coat all pasta with the creamy cheeseburger Alfredo sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the dish with chopped pickles, crispy bacon bits, and fresh parsley for added texture and flavor. Serve hot immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.
- Pasta types such as penne, rotini or elbow macaroni work well to hold the creamy sauce.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy sauce.
- For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cream or milk substitutes, though the sauce may be less rich.
- This dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner and pairs well with a simple green salad.
