This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta combines creamy Alfredo sauce with the hearty flavors of cheeseburgers. You’ll find pasta, ground beef, cheese, and fun toppings in this dish!
If you’re like me, you’ll love the mix of comfort food all in one bowl. I even toss on extra cheese and bacon for a real treat. Who can say no to that? 🍔🍝
This dish is super easy to make. Just cook the pasta, brown the beef, mix it all together, and enjoy! Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something yummy and filling!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its shape that holds onto the creamy sauce well. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you have on hand!
Ground Beef: While ground beef is traditional, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. Each will bring its unique flavor to the dish.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are super convenient. If fresh tomatoes are in season, ripe ones work great too. You might also consider using diced green chilies for an extra kick!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream ensures a rich sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute like cashew cream, though it may change the flavor slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese gives a nice punch to the flavor. If you want a twist, mix in gruyère or mozzarella for a different texture and taste.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy and Delicious?
The creamy sauce is key to making this dish stand out. Here are my tips to ensure you get that perfect consistency and flavor.
- After adding the heavy cream and beef broth, let it simmer for a few minutes before adding cheese. This helps build the flavor.
- Gradually stir in the cheddar cheese, allowing each bit to melt into the sauce before adding more. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth texture.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep, and about 20 minutes cooking. Just enough time to create a comforting and cheesy meal that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for that perfect al dente texture! Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, stirring with a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces. If there’s a lot of grease, carefully drain out the excess.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté everything together for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onion to become nice and translucent, which means it’s ready for the next step!
4. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. The smells are going to be amazing!
5. Combine with Pasta:
Once your sauce is simmering, it’s time for the pasta! Add the cooked rotini to the skillet and gently stir everything together until well combined.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Slowly add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the pasta and sauce mixture. Stir it in until the cheese is melted and the pasta is creamy and delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, scoop the loaded cheeseburger alfredo pasta into bowls. Top each serving with the remaining shredded cheese and, if you like, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a touch of color. Dig in and enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, as turkey can cook faster than beef. You might want to add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or your favorite meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and make sure to check for vegetarian cheese if you’re using cheese. All other ingredients remain the same!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance! Cook everything except the pasta, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a skillet, then cook the pasta and combine just before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick. Alternatively, you can microwave it on low power, stirring occasionally.
