Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta Recipe

If you adore the classic flavors of a cheeseburger but want to experience them in a whole new way, then you are going to love this Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta. This dish masterfully blends the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the hearty, savory satisfaction of a cheeseburger, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s comfort food elevated, delivering every bit of that nostalgic cheeseburger goodness in a warm, cheesy, and utterly irresistible pasta bowl. Trust me, once you try Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta, it will quickly become a new favorite for family dinners and cozy nights in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta means gathering a handful of simple ingredients that work together beautifully to create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with texture. Each ingredient plays its part from tender pasta to the bold seasonings that bring out that authentic cheeseburger flavor.

• 1 lb ground beef: This provides the hearty, meaty base that makes the dish truly satisfying.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the creaminess.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the richness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Imparts a warm depth of flavor essential to any great savory dish.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a mild sweetness and enhances the savory profile.
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni): The perfect vehicle to carry all that cheesy, saucy goodness.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Responsible for the velvety Alfredo base that coats every bite.
• 1 cup beef broth: Brings a boost of umami and moisture to meld all flavors together.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Gives that classic sharp cheeseburger bite and melts beautifully.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds rich nuttiness and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon for that unmistakable savory tang.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Delivers a subtle zing that brightens the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky warmth reminiscent of a backyard grilled burger.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick in their creamy pasta.

How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding your ground beef. Season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder while cooking. Let the beef brown thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula until there are no pink bits left and it’s beautifully caramelized. This step develops rich flavor and texture that forms the base of your Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the beef is browning, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your choice of pasta—penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni—until just al dente. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite because it will continue to cook once mixed into the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside once ready.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the beef, reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce reduce slightly for about 3 to 5 minutes, which thickens it up and concentrates the flavors, giving you that luxurious, creamy base perfect for the pasta.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cheeses

Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. The mixture should become thick and creamy, enveloping the whole dish in cheesy goodness that truly captures the essence of Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Beef with Sauce

Return the browned ground beef to the sauce and stir to combine. Then add the drained pasta, tossing gently to coat every piece in that irresistible cheesy sauce and beef mixture. Allow everything to warm through for a couple of minutes, so the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

Garnishes

Top your Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta with freshly chopped green onions or chives to add a fresh pop of color and a slightly sharp contrast to the rich sauce. Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or crispy bacon bits for added texture and an even more indulgent cheeseburger vibe.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully rich, so pairing it with lighter sides like a crisp garden salad with a vinaigrette dressing or steamed green beans adds balance. If you want to keep the comfort theme going, try oven-roasted potatoes or garlic bread to sop up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful take, serve the dish in mini cast iron skillets or bread bowls for a fun, shareable presentation. You can also sprinkle crushed pickles or serve alongside homemade burger pickles for that signature cheeseburger crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious, if not more so.

Freezing

Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta can be frozen, but due to the creamy sauce, the texture may change slightly. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! While ground beef gives the classic cheeseburger flavor, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives can work well if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni are ideal because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The base recipe has a mild heat, mainly from paprika and optional red pepper flakes. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or leaving out the red pepper flakes entirely.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your beef broth and other condiments are certified gluten-free.

How can I make the dish more authentic cheeseburger style?

Adding traditional burger toppings like pickles, diced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of ketchup or mustard at serving can bring out more of the classic cheeseburger experience.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a dish that brings together the best of two favorites, and Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta does just that with flair and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe promises a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal filled with creamy, savory goodness. Don’t wait to whip up this dish—you’ll wonder why you hadn’t combined these two classics sooner!

Print