This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is creamy and cheesy, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It blends pasta with ground beef, cheese, and a rich sauce that feels like a hug in a bowl!
I love how this dish brings together my favorite burger flavors and pasta. It’s like having a delicious meal without the mess of a burger! 🍔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini or fusilli for this recipe because the shapes really hold the sauce well. You could also swap in penne or farfalle if that’s what you have on hand.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is ideal for this dish. For a lighter option, choose ground turkey or chicken. You can even use a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version!
Heavy Cream: This gives creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk makes a good substitute, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Cheddar and Parmesan Cheese: I use sharp cheddar for a strong flavor. If you’re out, try other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of Italian cheeses. Nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free alternative.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring freshness and sweetness. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, chopped regular tomatoes work fine, or try using sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste.
How Do You Make a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
To achieve a smooth and creamy sauce, control the heat and the timing during cooking. Here are some helpful steps:
- Heat your skillet on medium; you want a gentle simmer when adding your cream, not a rolling boil.
- After adding cream and seasonings, stir constantly to combine everything and avoid scorching.
- When melting the cheeses, keep the heat low and take your time; this prevents the cheese from clumping.
Always remember to taste and adjust your seasoning before mixing in the pasta to get the best flavor!
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta Base:
- 8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional cheese, if desired
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta can be ready in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (a little firm to the bite). Once done, drain it in a colander and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula—this should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat left in the skillet, carefully drain it off.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
Now, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté this mixture until the onion becomes translucent, which should take around 3 minutes.
4. Add Tomatoes:
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and allow them to cook for another 2 minutes, until they soften a bit.
5. Make the Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream, and add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this delicious mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Cheese it Up:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses are melted and everything is well combined into a creamy sauce.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Now, add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss it all together to coat the pasta evenly in that rich, creamy sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta warm. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sprinkle some extra cheese on top if you’re feeling cheesy! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink, and you might want to add a bit more seasoning since these meats can be milder in flavor.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less thick and creamy, so you might want to add a tablespoon of flour to help it thicken.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if it’s too thick.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add any other vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic for the best flavor and texture.
