This creamy Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a fun twist on a classic dish! Packed with ground beef, cheesy sauce, and pasta, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Who doesn’t love a hearty meal that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger in pasta form? I always add extra cheese—because more is definitely better when it comes to cheese! 🧀
This dish is super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights. Just cook the pasta, brown the beef, mix it all together, and enjoy a cozy dinner that feels like a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its spiraled shape that holds onto the creamy sauce. If you’re out of rotini, any pasta type works well! Consider penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground turkey is a lighter choice, while beef adds more flavor. If you’re vegetarian or want a healthier option, try plant-based ground meat or even lentils!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are handy here, but fresh tomatoes work well too, especially during summer. For a twist, use fire-roasted tomatoes for an added depth of flavor!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its rich creaminess. You can substitute with half-and-half, or for a lighter option, use evaporated milk. Coconut milk adds a unique flavor for a dairy-free version.
Cheddar and Parmesan: I love sharp cheddar for its bold taste. If you need a substitute, try Gruyère for richness or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan option. Just make sure it melts well!
How Do I Get That Creamy Sauce Just Right?
The sauce is key to this recipe’s deliciousness. Here are some tips to achieve the perfect creamy consistency:
- After you add the heavy cream, reduce the heat to low. This stops it from boiling, which helps keep the cream from separating.
- Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan gradually, letting each addition melt completely before adding more. This ensures a smooth sauce.
- Take a moment to season as you go; taste the sauce before adding the pasta. This way, you can adjust the spices for your palate.
With these tips, you’ll have a delightful Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta that’s creamy and satisfying! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and browning the meat, then around 15 minutes bringing everything together in the sauce. The result is a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s sure to please everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Brown the Meat:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s a lot of excess fat, drain it off carefully.
3. Add the Flavors:
Once the meat is browned, add the minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about a minute, letting all those wonderful smells come together.
4. Mix in the Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes and let them cook for 2-3 minutes. This will add a nice freshness to the sauce.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and start stirring in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Keep stirring until everything is melted together and creamy—this is going to be the best part!
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together so the noodles are coated in that cheesy sauce. This will be cheesy goodness in every bite!
7. Final Touches:
Let it cook on low for an additional 2-3 minutes just to warm everything through. If you want, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your loaded cheeseburger Alfredo pasta hot! Garnish each plate with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be a great substitution if you prefer a lighter protein. Just cook it the same way as you would ground beef or turkey, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can make a dairy-free version by substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative (like coconut cream or cashew cream) and using dairy-free cheese shreds. Just keep an eye on the melting properties of your cheese alternative as they can vary.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just sauté them with the ground meat before adding the tomatoes to ensure they’re cooked through and incorporate well into the dish.
