This Easy Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta combines pasta, cheesy sauce, and tasty burger flavors in one dish! It’s creamy, filling, and definitely a crowd-pleaser.
If you love cheeseburgers, you’re going to enjoy this pasta! I like to top it with extra cheese and bacon bits for that ultimate comfort food vibe. Who can say no to that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This shape holds onto the creamy sauce really well. If you can’t find rotini, go for penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. They all work similarly!
Ground Beef: I typically use lean ground beef for this recipe, but feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based crumbles if you’re going vegetarian.
Cheese Mix: Mozzarella and cheddar are my top choices for this dish; they melt beautifully! If you’re in a pinch, you can also use pre-shredded cheese mixes or other melting cheeses like gouda or Monterey jack.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its richness. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you could replace it with half-and-half or a creamy plant-based milk, but the flavor will vary.
How Do You Create a Smooth Cheese Sauce?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is essential to this dish’s creamy texture. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly:
- First, melt the butter on medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant, which activates the flavor.
- When you add the heavy cream, keep stirring to prevent it from burning or curdling. Let it simmer gently—that’s where it thickens!
- Stir in the cheese gradually, allowing each addition to melt before adding more. This helps ensure a creamy sauce.
- Finally, don’t rush this step—take your time to achieve a smooth mixture.
These little tips will help you whip up a deliciously creamy sauce for this loaded pasta dish!
Easy Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces rotini pasta (or your favorite pasta)
For the Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Toppings:
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total, with approximately 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that you can whip up on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Once done, drain any excess fat and remove the beef from the skillet, setting it aside for later.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute or until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a low simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it from burning.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Once the cream has thickened a bit, stir in the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until everything is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta, browned ground beef, and diced tomatoes into the cheese sauce. Stir everything together well and allow it to heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season and Serve:
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with the remaining salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta!
This dish delivers the delicious, comforting flavors of a loaded cheeseburger in a creamy pasta format that will surely satisfy your cravings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Choose your favorite pasta shape!
Can I Make This Recipe with Ground Turkey or Chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just season it similarly and cook until it’s fully browned and cooked through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in some cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream.
