Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a perfect dish for anyone craving a hearty meal. This comforting recipe combines the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger with creamy pasta. It’s quick to prepare and is always a family favorite. Plus, who can resist the crispy bacon on top? This dish is not only tasty but also filling, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
How to Make Creamy Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Cook Pasta: Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Brown Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes. Add garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Make Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and beef broth. Simmer for 3-4 minutes. Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
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Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat evenly. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Finish & Serve: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a bubbly golden finish. Garnish with parsley if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
This creamy pasta dish is best served warm. You can dish it out into bowls and let everyone sprinkle additional bacon or parsley on top if they wish. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.
How to Store Creamy Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen it up again.
Tips to Make Creamy Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
- Make sure to cook the beef thoroughly before adding the cream and broth.
- Don’t skip the broiling step if you want a nice, bubbly top.
- You can use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a twist on flavor.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies. Spinach, mushrooms, or even bell peppers can add extra flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
A: You can use lean ground turkey instead of beef and substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you are ready to serve.
Creamy Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for a lighter option.
- 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced You can use yellow or white onion.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For added flavor.
Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to use other types of cheese as a variation.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika For added depth of flavor.
- to taste Salt and black pepper
Toppings
- 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon For a crispy topping.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Making the Sauce
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and beef broth. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Combining
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat evenly.
- Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Finishing Touches
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
- Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a bubbly golden finish.
- Garnish with parsley if desired.