Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta with Bacon

 

If you love the rich, cheesy decadence of Alfredo pasta and the juicy, savory satisfaction of a classic cheeseburger, this recipe is about to blow your mind. Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta with Bacon is the ultimate one-pan meal that combines two American comfort food icons into one irresistible dish. It’s creamy, meaty, cheesy, and layered with smoky beef bacon that takes it completely over the top. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you just want to treat yourself to a hearty, indulgent meal, this pasta dish hits every flavor note.

The marriage of creamy Alfredo sauce with the seasoned ground beef and crispy beef bacon creates a luscious, flavorful base that clings to every noodle. Plus, with melted cheddar cheese swirled into the sauce and a finishing layer of crisped bacon, it’s practically impossible to stop at one serving. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive into the full recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Base:

• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for richness)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Cheese Sauce:

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ tsp paprika

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Bacon:

• 6 strips beef bacon, cooked and crumbled

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

• Extra Parmesan or cheddar

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the beef bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same skillet (leave a little bacon drippings if desired), add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Cheese Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low. To the cooked beef, pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir to combine.

Add Parmesan cheese, shredded cheddar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes thick and creamy, about 5-6 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Stir in the cooked pasta and half of the crumbled beef bacon. Mix until the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy beef sauce.

Top with remaining bacon and an extra sprinkle of cheddar or Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve hot.

Variation

There are many fun ways to customize this dish:

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

• Veggie Boost: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach blend in beautifully.

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter option.

• Cheese Options: Try pepper jack, Colby, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

• Crunchy Topping: Add toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving.

COOKING Note:

• Cheese Freshness Matters: Always use freshly grated cheese from a block when possible. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.

• Pasta Type: Choose short pasta with crevices like rotini, penne, or cavatappi – they trap the sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.

• Thickening Tip: If your sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes. If too thick, thin with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this pasta with a side salad for freshness – a simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.

• Pair with garlic bread or cheesy pull-apart rolls.

• Add a steamed veggie like broccoli or green beans on the side for a more complete plate.

Tips:

• Meal Prep Friendly: This pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store in airtight containers and reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

• Freezer Option: Freeze in single-serving portions for easy lunches or dinners later.

• Make It a Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese and extra bacon, and broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly for a casserole version.

• Don’t Skip the Dijon: A little Dijon mustard adds depth and balances the richness without making it taste mustardy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information: (per serving, serves 6)

• Calories: ~670

• Protein: ~32g

• Sodium: ~820mg

(Values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.)

FAQs

Q: Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce?
A: Yes, you can substitute the homemade sauce with a 15-oz jar of Alfredo, but we highly recommend the scratch version for superior flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free thickener if adjusting the sauce. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q: Is this kid-friendly?
A: Yes! Kids love the cheeseburger flavors and creamy pasta. Just adjust the spices to their taste (omit Dijon and paprika if preferred).

Q: How do I make this ahead?
A: Cook the pasta and beef ahead of time and store separately. Reheat and combine with the sauce just before serving for best texture.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes. Try adding frozen peas, cooked mushrooms, or spinach for a nutritious boost.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta with Bacon is not just another pasta dish—it’s a flavor-packed, comfort-loaded meal that delivers the satisfying taste of a cheeseburger in creamy, cheesy pasta form. It’s quick to prepare, deeply flavorful, and customizable to your family’s preferences. The combination of seasoned beef, savory Alfredo sauce, smoky beef bacon, and melty cheese makes this an instant favorite.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or looking for a potluck dish that will wow, this pasta is a winning choice. Bookmark this one—you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds).

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