Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

Looking for a dish that combines the creamy deliciousness of Alfredo pasta with the savory goodness of a cheeseburger? This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta recipe is the perfect blend of comfort food and bold flavor. Packed with ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and a tangy touch of pickles, this pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) penne or rotini pasta
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped (optional, for an extra tangy flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for a slight tangy undertone)
Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne or rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove any excess grease from the pan, if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
If you’re using dill pickles, stir them in now for that extra tangy crunch. This step is optional, but it gives the dish that perfect cheeseburger-like flavor!

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
For an optional touch of flavor, you can stir in 1 tablespoon of ketchup at this point to add a slight tang, mimicking the taste of a classic cheeseburger.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and heated through, divide the pasta among serving plates.
Garnish with chopped green onions or extra shredded cheese, if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate combination of comfort food and flavor. The creamy cheddar cheese sauce pairs perfectly with savory ground beef and tangy pickles. It’s a delicious, hearty dish that’s quick and easy to make—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

Tips for Success

Add extra pickles: For those who love a tangy twist, you can add more pickles or even try sweet pickles for a different flavor.
Customize with other toppings: Want to make it even more indulgent? Add crispy bacon (optional), sautéed mushrooms, or even lettuce for added texture.
Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ground beef mixture and sauce ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to add the cooked pasta.

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for ground beef. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to match the flavor profile.

Can I freeze Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta?

While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the dish after it’s fully cooked. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stove with a little extra cream or milk to rehydrate the sauce.

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