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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet or pan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan for flavor.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat if necessary, and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream and milk, and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
- Add the cooked ground beef and bacon back into the skillet with the pasta.
- Pour the prepared Alfredo sauce over the beef and bacon mixture, and stir to coat everything evenly.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Make sure the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta in bowls and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a few slices of pickles if you want to add an extra “cheeseburger” touch.
- Enjoy this rich, indulgent dish with a side of crispy bread or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
🥖 With Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
🍅 With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
🍔 With Fries: Serve with crispy fries or tater tots for a true cheeseburger-inspired meal.
Variations & Customizations
🔹 Add Veggies: You can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
🔹 Spicy Version: Add some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring a bit of heat to the dish.
🔹 Cheeseburger Inspired: For an even cheesier touch, add some American cheese along with the cheddar and Parmesan.
🔹 Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
🔹 Extra Bacon: Can’t get enough bacon? Add extra bacon bits or crumble some on top for that crispy, smoky flavor in every bite.
Tips for the Best Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
✔️ Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the creamiest Alfredo sauce, use full-fat cream and whole milk. It’ll give the sauce the rich, velvety texture you’re looking for.
✔️ Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, be sure to cook it just until al dente, as it will continue to soften when combined with the sauce.
✔️ Bacon Fat Adds Flavor: Don’t be afraid to use the bacon fat in the pan to cook the beef—it adds extra flavor to the entire dish!
✔️ Adjust the Cheese: If you prefer a cheesier dish, feel free to add more shredded cheese to both the sauce and the pasta mixture.
✔️ Leftovers: This dish is great for leftovers! Simply reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.
Make-Ahead & Storage
🧊 Make Ahead:
- You can prepare the beef and bacon mixture, sauce, and pasta separately in advance and then combine everything just before serving.
🥶 Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture.
- This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy-based sauce, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or as leftovers within a few days.
Final Thoughts
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled dish that will leave everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its indulgent flavors and hearty ingredients.
So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this flavor-packed masterpiece—it’s everything you love about cheeseburgers and Alfredo pasta, all in one delicious bowl! 🍔🍝🧀
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