This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a decadent and comforting dish that brings together all the best flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger in creamy Alfredo form. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and a rich Alfredo sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a satisfying dinner. It’s easy to make and is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Treat yourself to this hearty, cheesy pasta that combines the best of two comfort foods—cheeseburgers and creamy pasta.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
• Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Season the Beef

• Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, mustard powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

• Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, whole milk, and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
• Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
• Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish if desired.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve the loaded bacon cheeseburger Alfredo pasta warm, garnished with the reserved bacon and chopped green onions, if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Pasta: Feel free to use any type of short pasta that you have on hand, such as rigatoni or cavatappi.
• Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier incorporation into the sauce.
• Cheese: For a more pronounced cheese flavor, you can use sharp cheddar or even add a little smoked gouda.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Addition: Add some diced tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the pasta for extra texture and flavor.
• Healthier Option: Use ground turkey instead of ground beef and swap the heavy cream for half-and-half to lighten up the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon? A: Absolutely! Pre-cooked bacon will work just fine in this recipe. Simply crumble it and add it as instructed.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze this pasta dish? A: This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it if needed. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Combining the best elements of a cheeseburger with a decadent Alfredo sauce, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite for family dinners. Whether you’re craving something hearty or looking for a dish to impress your guests, this loaded pasta will hit the spot. Give it a try and enjoy all the cheesy, bacon-loaded goodness in every bite!