This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a comforting dish that mixes creamy Alfredo sauce with pasta, ground beef, and cheese. It’s everything you love about burgers, all in one bowl!
It’s like a cheeseburger and pasta had a delicious baby! I often sprinkle extra cheese on top just to make it even gooier—because, why not? 🧀
This recipe is super easy to whip up on busy nights. Just cook the pasta, make the sauce, and mix in the beef. Dinner will be ready before you know it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fusilli Pasta: Fusilli is great for holding onto the sauce, but you can swap it for penne or rotini if needed. They work well too!
Ground Beef: I like using ground chuck for its rich flavor, but turkey or chicken could be healthier alternatives. You can even try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option!
Heavy Cream: This brings creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half or even Greek yogurt could work, keeping in mind that the flavor and texture will differ a bit.
Cheddar Cheese: While shredded cheddar is my favorite for that cheeseburger taste, a mix of mozzarella or Monterey Jack can add a nice touch too. You can also try vegan cheese if you’re keeping it dairy-free!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add freshness. If they’re not available, you could use regular diced tomatoes or skip them entirely for a more classic alfredo vibe.
How Can I Achieve a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce can feel tricky, but using a few simple steps can help you get it right every time!
- After adding the heavy cream, stir it well and let it gently simmer on low heat. This helps the flavors meld without burning.
- Add cheese gradually! Sprinkle in a little bit at a time, stirring between additions to help it melt gradually and evenly.
- If the sauce feels too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of pasta water or extra cream to reach your desired consistency.
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fusilli pasta
For the Beef Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 25 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious, creamy pasta ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Season the meat with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and no longer pink. If there’s too much fat in the pan, drain it out.
3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until it releases a nice aroma. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for about 2-3 minutes just until they start to soften.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir it into the beef mixture, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
Now, add the drained fusilli pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to heat it through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is ready! Dish it out onto plates and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey might take a little less time to brown. Season generously since turkey has a milder flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a mixture of milk with a bit of butter for a creamy texture. If using a lower-fat option, consider adding a bit of flour to the sauce to help thicken it up.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, just replace the ground beef with a mix of your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms and bell peppers, or use a plant-based ground meat alternative. Don’t forget to add extra seasonings to enhance the flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce as it reheats!
