This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food mashup. It combines the rich, creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with the bold flavors of a cheeseburger, topped with crispy bacon, melty cheese, and fresh toppings. Perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging in a hearty meal!
Serves: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices bacon , chopped
- 1 small onion , finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, but adds depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (for garnish)
- 2 green onions , sliced (for garnish)
- Extra crumbled cooked bacon (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Bacon
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
- Stir in the diced onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Season the beef mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet (or a separate saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and nutmeg (if using). Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in the cooked ground beef mixture and mix well to combine.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and gooey.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving bowls.
- Top with the crispy bacon, chopped pickles, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and extra crumbled bacon for garnish.
- Serve hot and enjoy the loaded cheeseburger-inspired goodness!
Tips for Success:
- Customize the toppings: Add jalapeños, diced red onions, or a drizzle of ketchup and mustard for an extra cheeseburger flair.
- Use leftover burger meat: If you have leftover grilled burgers, chop them up and use them instead of ground beef for an authentic cheeseburger flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for a kick.
- Meal prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 8):
- Calories: ~550
- Protein: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~35g
Enjoy this Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta as a decadent, indulgent meal that brings together all your favorite flavors in one dish. It’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving something rich and satisfying!