This creamy Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta brings together the best of two favorites: cheesy pasta and juicy cheeseburgers! It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with goodness.
Who can say no to pasta covered in a cheesy sauce with tasty bits of beef, bacon, and veggies? I mean, it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl—perfect for quick weeknight dinners!
I love how easy it is to whip up—just cook the pasta, mix in the rest, and you’re ready to feast! It’s always a hit at my house; we often make it for movie nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini for its curly shape, which holds the sauce well. Fusilli is a great alternative! If you prefer a gluten-free option, try chickpea pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter dish.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives a hearty flavor. For a healthier touch, use ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarian? Crumbled tempeh or lentils work well too!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. If you want a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or even a full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is key for that cheesy goodness. You can swap it with Monterey Jack for a milder taste or mix in some mozzarella for extra stretch. Vegan cheese alternatives are also available.
Diced Tomatoes: Fresh or canned work perfectly. If you like a bit of heat, consider using diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick.
How Do You Make Sure Your Pasta Gets Coated in Sauce?
Getting that perfect coating of sauce on your pasta is all about timing and technique. Make sure to toss the cooked pasta into the sauce while it’s still hot. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Once your sauce is ready, turn off the heat before adding the pasta.
- Use tongs or a large fork to gently toss the pasta and sauce together until well combined.
- Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick. This helps the sauce stick!
A little tip: Keep some extra cheese handy for a sprinkle on top before serving. It makes for a delicious finish! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Meat:
- 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a little time cooking the pasta and browning the beef, then just mix everything together. A quick and tasty meal is right at your fingertips!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini or fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions. This generally takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to cook it all the way through!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3 minutes, until the onions are softened and fragrant.
4. Mix in the Tomatoes:
Stir in the diced tomatoes and let them cook for an additional 2 minutes. This will add a lovely flavor to your dish.
5. Create the Alfredo Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, giving everything a good mix. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—this means you’ll see small bubbles on the surface but not a full boil.
6. Add the Cheese and Seasoning:
Now it’s time to add the shredded cheddar cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash more beef broth.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is now ready! Serve it hot, sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley for a nice pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini and fusilli work great for this recipe, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or even spaghetti. Just ensure to cook it according to the package instructions until al dente for the best texture.
What Makes a Good Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of melted butter) for a lighter version. Just be aware that it will result in a slightly thinner sauce.
