This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and cheesy dish that’s full of flavor. It combines rich alfredo sauce, ground beef, and pasta for a comforting meal that’s easy to love!
If you’re like me, you’ll want to pile on extra cheese and bacon for that ultimate cheeseburger taste. It always makes me feel like a kid again! 
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its twisty shape, which holds the sauce well. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta type.
Ground Beef: This recipe shines with ground beef, but you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just remember that cooking times may vary.
Heavy Cream: This gives richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the sauce won’t be quite as creamy. For dairy-free, opt for coconut cream or cashew cream.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a crowd favorite here! Feel free to mix it with Monterey Jack or Gouda for different flavors. If you need it dairy-free, there are several plant-based cheese options that melt well.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add sweetness and brightness. Canned diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch, but I prefer fresh for texture. If they’re out of season, consider sun-dried tomatoes for a punchy flavor.
How Do You Make Sure the Sauce is Smooth and Creamy?
Achieving a smooth and creamy Alfredo sauce is key to this dish. Start with a medium heat to help the cheeses melt without scorching. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- After adding the cream, bring your sauce to a gentle simmer; this encourages blending.
- Add the cheeses gradually, stirring constantly. This prevents clumping and ensures even melting.
- If the sauce gets too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up! Just be careful not to add too much.
Patience is important. Take your time while stirring for that perfect creamy texture!
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
For The Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that combines the goodness of pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce and flavorful beef!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water and cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (just tender). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be the base of our dish!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook them until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. This will add a lovely flavor to your sauce!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s well browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish from becoming greasy.
4. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. This lets the flavors blend beautifully!
5. Add the Cheeses:
Lower the heat to low and add both the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to your sauce. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes nice and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
6. Mix in the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, tossing everything together so that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy goodness. Delicious!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and more cheese if you like. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will give you a leaner dish. Just keep an eye on cooking time as turkey can sometimes take a bit longer to brown. You can also add a touch more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes, feel free to mix and match! You can use mozzarella for a gooey texture or gouda for a smoky flavor. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well to maintain a creamy sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you might need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce as it may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils, mushrooms, or a store-bought meat substitute. You’ll also want to use vegetable broth instead of Worcestershire sauce (check for vegan options) to keep it vegetarian-friendly!
