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A delicious plate of Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is shown as the featured image.

Irresistible Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

This recipe combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the creamy indulgence of Alfredo pasta. It features ground beef, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a rich Alfredo sauce, served over your favorite pasta shape and topped with classic cheeseburger toppings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 750
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 or leaner
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • Optional toppings: cooked bacon crumbles
  • Optional toppings: diced tomatoes
  • Optional toppings: chopped pickles
  • Optional toppings: sliced green onions

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • colander
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and garlic powder and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  8. Serve immediately, topped with your favorite cheeseburger toppings like bacon crumbles, diced tomatoes, chopped pickles, and sliced green onions.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. Be sure to thoroughly drain the ground beef to avoid a greasy sauce. Simmer the sauce gently to prevent it from separating. A pinch of sugar or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.