This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta combines creamy goodness with all your favorite cheeseburger toppings. Think pasta coated in rich Alfredo sauce, beef, cheese, and even bacon bits!
You might just want to call it comfort food in a bowl! I love adding extra pickles on top—because why not? It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This curly pasta is great for holding onto the sauce. You can swap it for any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli, depending on your preference or what’s in your pantry.
Ground Beef: While ground beef gives that classic cheeseburger flavor, feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking to lighten things up, half-and-half works well. You could also use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that still offers creaminess.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for great flavor, but you could use a mild cheddar if you prefer. Other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a fun twist.
Cream Cheese: For a similar texture, you could use Greek yogurt, but be careful with the heat to avoid curdling. You can also leave it out if you want a lighter sauce.
How Do I Create a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is key to the creamy texture in this pasta dish. Here’s how to ensure your cheese sauce turns out perfectly:
- Start by cooking the garlic briefly to release its fragrance before adding the cream and cream cheese. This helps build flavor.
- When you add the heavy cream and cream cheese, keep the heat low to avoid scalding.
- Stir continuously as you gradually add the shredded cheeses. This helps them melt evenly into the sauce without clumping.
- If your sauce gets too thick, you can thin it with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water.
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Meat:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
For Seasoning:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta will take about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10 minutes for cooking the pasta and the beef, followed by a quick 10-15 minutes to make the creamy sauce and mix everything together. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, making sure to break it apart with a spatula. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
3. Add the Flavors:
Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another minute until the garlic smells amazing. Then, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Toss in the chopped tomatoes too! Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is nice and smooth.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Gradually add the cheddar and parmesan cheeses, continuing to stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy and rich.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked rotini pasta directly into the sauce. Toss everything together to make sure the pasta is well coated with that yummy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, serve the Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta hot. Garnish with fresh parsley and some extra cheese if you like. Dig in and enjoy your scrumptious meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide a delicious flavor, and it’s often a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and season it well, as turkey can be milder in taste compared to beef. You might want to add a bit more Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter. To make 1 cup of heavy cream substitute, combine 3/4 cup of milk with 1/3 cup of melted butter. This will give you a similar consistency and richness!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to loosen it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to boost the nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them alongside the ground beef before adding the cream and cheeses. This way, they’ll become tender and blend nicely into the dish!
