Description

Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta combines the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger with creamy Alfredo pasta. Ground beef seasoned with smoky spices and mixed with rich Alfredo sauce, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses creates a hearty base, enhanced by crispy bacon and tangy dill pickles for that authentic cheeseburger taste. This easy one-pan dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual dinner with a delicious twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Meats & Proteins

1 pound ground beef (85/15 preferred)
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

Pasta

8 ounces pasta (elbow, penne, rotini, or shells)

Cheese & Dairy

1½ cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional for extra meltiness)

Seasonings & Oils

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Extras & Toppings

⅓ cup diced dill pickles
Optional: chopped tomatoes
Optional: shredded lettuce

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta well and set it aside for later.
Brown the ground beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it is browned and no longer pink, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Add seasonings: Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the browned beef. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the spices, enhancing its flavor.
Stir in Alfredo sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour the Alfredo sauce into the skillet with the seasoned beef and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss well to coat all the pasta with the creamy sauce and beef. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese (if using) until they melt into a rich, creamy mixture.
Add toppings: Sprinkle the crumbled cooked bacon and diced dill pickles evenly over the pasta. For an authentic cheeseburger experience, optionally top with fresh chopped tomatoes and shredded lettuce just before serving.
Serve hot: Scoop the loaded cheeseburger Alfredo pasta into bowls or plates and enjoy warm. This hearty dish makes comfort food exciting and flavorful with every bite.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; keeping it al dente ensures it holds texture and doesn’t become mushy.
Use freshly cooked bacon for best flavor and crispness.
If you prefer less rich dishes, reduce the amount of cheese or substitute with lower-fat versions.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheeseburger pasta, alfredo pasta, ground beef pasta, loaded pasta, comfort food, creamy pasta, bacon pasta, quick dinner