Description
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the best of two worlds: the bold flavors of a bacon cheeseburger and the creamy richness of Alfredo pasta. Juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and a luscious cheese sauce coat tender pasta for an irresistibly indulgent meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is a surefire hit with family and friends!
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Meat:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Extra crumbled bacon (for topping)
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
- Using the same skillet, add the ground beef.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Cook over medium heat, breaking apart with a spatula, until fully browned (about 6-8 minutes).
- Drain excess grease if needed and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously.
- Stir in Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.
- Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add cooked pasta and browned ground beef to the Alfredo sauce.
- Stir in half of the crispy bacon, saving the rest for garnish.
- Simmer for 2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
- Top with remaining crispy bacon, extra shredded cheese, and fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta while it’s hot!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes