This Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, cheesy delight! It’s packed with flavors of beef, cheese, and pasta, making it a filling treat for any meal. Yum!
This dish is like having a cheeseburger and pasta in one bite! I love serving it with garlic bread to soak up that rich sauce. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape holds onto the sauce really well. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni for a different twist.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef (like 80/20) for flavor without too much grease. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian alternatives like lentils or plant-based crumbles work well too!
Cherry Tomatoes: These little beauties add a burst of flavor! If unavailable, try using canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste profile.
Heavy Cream: This is key for a rich sauce. If you need a lighter version, half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream will work, though the sauce will be less creamy.
Cheddar Cheese: A must for that cheeseburger flavor! If you want a sharper taste, use aged cheddar. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for added flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Creamy and Smooth?
Creating a creamy sauce is all about heat control and mixing. Here’s how to nail it:
- After adding the heavy cream, bring it to a gentle simmer; avoid boiling vigorously to prevent curdling.
- When adding the cheeses, remove the pan from heat. This helps prevent them from separating, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Stir continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and mixed into the cream.
Trust me, patience pays off when making a decadent sauce!
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
For the Cheeseburger Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta, and around 20 minutes preparing the beef and sauce. It’s quick and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it reaches a boil, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, carefully drain off any excess fat.
3. Add Flavor with Garlic and Tomatoes:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef and sauté for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant. Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
4. Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continually until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
Finally, add the cooked rotini pasta into the creamy sauce, stirring well to ensure that every piece of pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce. Let it heat through for a minute.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Dish out the Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta into bowls and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. You can also add more cheese on top if you’d like. Enjoy your flavorful and hearty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative. Just cook them the same way as you would the ground beef, and season to taste. The flavor may be slightly different, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning or spices to enhance the taste!
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream for a Lighter Version?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream if you’re looking for a lighter option. Keep in mind that this may result in a thinner sauce, so consider thickening it with a little flour or cornstarch if needed!
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help bring back the creaminess of the sauce.
What Can I Add for Extra Veggies?
You can definitely add more veggies! Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet after sautéing the garlic. Just cook them until they’re tender before adding the cream to keep everything fresh and colorful!
