This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta combines the best of both worlds—juicy cheeseburger flavors with rich, creamy Alfredo sauce! Tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melty cheddar cheese come together in a mouthwatering, family-friendly meal that’s ready in 30 minutes.
Whether you’re looking for comfort food, an easy weeknight dinner, or a fun twist on classic pasta, this dish will be a new favorite!
💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Cheesy & Creamy – A rich Alfredo-style sauce with a cheeseburger twist!
✔ One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup and easy preparation.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite cheeseburger toppings!
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
📌 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
🍝 For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne or rotini pasta
🥩 For the Cheeseburger Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced
- ½ cup dill pickles, chopped (optional but adds a tangy kick!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
🧀 For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for a cheeseburger flavor boost!)
- 1 tbsp mustard (optional, for tanginess)
🌿 For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Add crisp bacon for a smoky crunch.
✔ Stir in cherry tomatoes or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.
✔ Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2️⃣ Add pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
3️⃣ Drain and set aside.
💡 Tip: Drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta to prevent sticking.
🍔 Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles.
3️⃣ Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
💡 Want more flavor? Season the beef with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
🧅 Step 3: Sauté Onions & Garlic
1️⃣ In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until soft and translucent.
2️⃣ Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Caramelizing onions adds even more depth to the sauce!
🥣 Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
1️⃣ Reduce heat to low and pour in heavy cream.
2️⃣ Stir in smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3️⃣ Slowly add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
4️⃣ Stir in ketchup and mustard (optional but adds a true cheeseburger flavor!).
💡 For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or chicken broth if needed.
🍝 Step 5: Combine Everything
1️⃣ Add cooked pasta and browned beef back into the skillet.
2️⃣ Stir well to coat everything in the cheesy Alfredo sauce.
3️⃣ Toss in chopped pickles (optional but adds a delicious tangy bite!).
💡 For extra cheesiness, top with more shredded cheddar before serving!
🌿 Step 6: Garnish & Serve
1️⃣ Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness.
2️⃣ Serve hot with garlic bread, a side salad, or crispy bacon crumbles!
💡 Drizzle with extra cheese sauce or hot sauce for a bold twist!
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
- Calories: ~550 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4-6
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Spicier – Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
✔ Low-Carb Option – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
✔ Dairy-Free? Use coconut cream & dairy-free cheese.
✔ Want a Crunchy Topping? Sprinkle crushed bacon or toasted breadcrumbs.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.