Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 9-11 minutes for most pasta shapes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to save about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help thicken the sauce later if needed.

2. Cook the Bacon and Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Break up the beef with a spoon and cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s fully browned and the onions are softened. Add the minced garlic and paprika, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the beef and onions from the skillet and set them aside, leaving a bit of rendered fat in the pan for the sauce.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and milk, stirring until well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the Parmesan and cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency. Stir in the garlic powder, Dijon mustard (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing until the pasta is well coated. Then, stir in the cooked beef and onions, followed by the crispy bacon. Mix everything together until evenly combined, and let the flavors meld for a couple of minutes.

5. Serve and Garnish: Once the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce and all the ingredients are combined, transfer it to a large serving dish. For extra cheeseburger flavor, garnish with shredded lettuce, pickles, and additional shredded cheese if desired. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh touch.

6. Dig In and Enjoy! Serve the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Each bite will be filled with tender pasta, savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and rich cheese—it’s the perfect meal for any comfort food lover.

Tips for the Best Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta:

• Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated cheese always melts better and creates a smoother sauce compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Add Some Veggies: If you want to add a little extra flavor and texture, try stirring in some spinach or bell peppers with the beef and onions.
• Spicy Version: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some hot sauce on top before serving.
• Make It in Advance: This dish can be made ahead of time! Simply prepare the pasta and sauce, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try:

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a flavor explosion in every bite, combining the best parts of two beloved comfort foods—cheeseburgers and pasta. The crispy bacon brings a smoky, savory element that balances the rich creaminess of the Alfredo sauce. The ground beef adds a hearty and satisfying component, while the pasta creates the perfect base for soaking up all the cheesy goodness.

This dish is perfect for those nights when you’re craving something rich and indulgent, yet easy to prepare. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste, so feel free to add extra toppings or tweak the ingredients to make it your own.

Conclusion:

Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a deliciously indulgent dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce, savory bacon, tender ground beef, and hearty pasta into one irresistible meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish will be a hit every time. So go ahead—make it today and indulge in a bowl of creamy, cheesy, and bacon-loaded goodness!