Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining the indulgent flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger with the creamy decadence of Alfredo pasta. This hearty dish features tender pasta, savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a show-stopping dish for gatherings, this recipe brings together the best of two beloved favorites. With its bold flavors and satisfying textures, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Flavorful: Combines the smoky, cheesy goodness of a bacon cheeseburger with creamy pasta.
- Easy to Make: Comes together in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add your favorite burger toppings or spices to make it your own.
- Comfort Food Classic: A hearty, indulgent dish that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks or family dinners—everyone will ask for seconds!
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Serving Size: About 1½ cups
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 680
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Meat:
- 12 oz rotini, penne, or fusilli pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheeseburger twist)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Toppings:
- Additional crumbled bacon
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Bacon
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely. Add the shredded cheddar cheese if using, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the sauce with garlic powder, nutmeg (if using), and additional salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta, Meat, and Sauce
- Return the cooked pasta and ground beef mixture to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in half of the crumbled bacon, reserving the rest for garnish.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Top with additional crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredient Background
- Rotini Pasta: The spiraled shape captures the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
- Ground Beef: Adds heartiness and mimics the flavor of a classic cheeseburger.
- Bacon: Smoky, crispy bacon elevates the dish and provides irresistible texture.
- Parmesan and Cheddar Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty depth, while cheddar introduces a gooey, cheeseburger-inspired twist.
- Heavy Cream: Creates the luxurious, velvety base for the Alfredo sauce.
Technique Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures it won’t become mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Drain Bacon Grease: Reserve a small amount in the skillet for flavor, but don’t leave too much to avoid greasy results.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it’s too thick or creamy.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Baked Alfredo Pasta: Transfer the combined pasta to a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Cheeseburger Bowls: Serve the beef and bacon mixture over pasta-free alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Mini Pasta Cups: Spoon the pasta mixture into muffin tins, top with cheese, and bake for individual servings.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add diced jalapeños, salsa, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a Southwestern flavor profile.
Additional Tips for Success
- Season Gradually: Adjust salt and pepper to taste as you cook, especially since bacon and Parmesan can be salty.
- Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Serve Immediately: The sauce thickens as it cools, so serve the dish fresh for the best texture.
- Double the Recipe: This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd, so feel free to scale it up for gatherings.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat and veggie bacon for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
- Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Substitute ground beef with shredded or diced chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Loaded Veggie Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for added nutrients and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Replace regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free alternative.
- Dairy-Free Alfredo: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast to create a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: Freeze the pasta without toppings in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Lean Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce fat content.
- Whole-Grain Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole-grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
- Lighten the Sauce: Use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or zucchini to boost the nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Game Day Favorite: Serve with garlic bread and a green salad for a winning combo.
- Potluck Crowd-Pleaser: Bring in a casserole dish for easy transport and serving.
- Family Dinner Night: Pair with roasted vegetables and a crisp white wine for a complete meal.
- Dinner Party Star: Plate individually and garnish with parsley for an elegant presentation.
Special Equipment
- Large Skillet: Essential for cooking the meat and sauce, then tossing the pasta.
- Cheese Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan and cheddar make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Tongs: Ideal for tossing pasta and sauce evenly.
- Pasta Pot: A large pot ensures the pasta cooks evenly without sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use pre-made Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but homemade sauce provides a fresher, more flavorful base.
Q2: Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well.
Q3: How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the sauce?
Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating on low heat to restore creaminess.
Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.
Q5: What pasta shape works best?
Short, ridged pastas like rotini, penne, or fusilli hold the sauce well.
Q6: How do I keep the sauce smooth?
Use freshly grated cheese and avoid boiling the sauce to prevent clumping or separation.
Q7: Can I make this dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Q8: What side dishes pair well?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.
Conclusion
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate fusion of comfort foods, delivering all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish. With its easy preparation and
irresistible flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or gatherings with friends and family. The combination of crispy bacon, juicy ground beef, and a velvety Alfredo sauce makes it a standout recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether served as a hearty main course or a centerpiece for a potluck, this Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta brings indulgence and satisfaction to every bite. Customize it to suit your tastes, and enjoy the compliments that follow—this dish is destined to become a household favorite!
Print
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta and Meat:
- 12 oz rotini, penne, or fusilli pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheeseburger twist)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Toppings:
- Additional crumbled bacon
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Bacon
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely. Add the shredded cheddar cheese if using, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the sauce with garlic powder, nutmeg (if using), and additional salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta, Meat, and Sauce
- Return the cooked pasta and ground beef mixture to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in half of the crumbled bacon, reserving the rest for garnish.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Top with additional crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and diced tomatoes. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredient Background
- Rotini Pasta: The spiraled shape captures the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
- Ground Beef: Adds heartiness and mimics the flavor of a classic cheeseburger.
- Bacon: Smoky, crispy bacon elevates the dish and provides irresistible texture.
- Parmesan and Cheddar Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty depth, while cheddar introduces a gooey, cheeseburger-inspired twist.
- Heavy Cream: Creates the luxurious, velvety base for the Alfredo sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1½ cups
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 44g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g