If you’re craving a hearty, indulgent dish that combines the best of a cheeseburger with creamy pasta, this Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is exactly what you need. Rich, cheesy, and packed with savory bacon and beef, it’s comfort food at its finest. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight indulgence, or feeding a crowd, this recipe brings together classic flavors in a decadent pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Preparing the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserving a cup of pasta water is helpful if you need to adjust the consistency of the sauce later.
While the pasta cooks, make sure to prepare all other ingredients. Chop the bacon, onion, and garlic so they’re ready to go when you start the sauce. Having everything prepped ensures a smooth, stress-free cooking process.
Once drained, lightly toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside in a warm spot while you prepare the cheeseburger mixture and sauce.
Cooking the Bacon and Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess fat. The rendered bacon fat will add flavor to the beef.
Next, add the ground beef to the same skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to give it that classic burger flavor.
Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent, then return the crispy bacon to the skillet. This creates the ultimate burger-inspired base for your pasta.
Making the Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then add the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently.
Gradually add the Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses, stirring constantly to form a creamy, smooth sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. This rich, cheesy sauce is the perfect partner for the bacon and beef mixture.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. Then fold in the beef and bacon mixture. Stir carefully so that every bite combines creamy Alfredo, savory beef, and crispy bacon. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, balancing salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta is best served hot from the stove, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and mild freshness. Pair it with a crisp green salad to balance the richness, or offer garlic bread on the side for a true comfort food experience. For a fun family-style meal, serve it in a large bowl and let everyone dig in directly, creating a warm and inviting presentation.
Tips for Perfect Pasta
To elevate your dish, cook the pasta just al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce. Crisp the bacon well to provide contrast to the creamy textures. For extra flavor, consider sautéing the garlic and onions in a bit of the bacon fat before adding the beef—it infuses the entire dish with smoky richness. Always taste and adjust seasonings, as creamy sauces can sometimes need a little extra salt or pepper to pop.
Variations to Try
For a cheeseburger-inspired twist, add diced pickles or a drizzle of ketchup and mustard on top after serving. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein version, or use turkey bacon to reduce fat content. You can also swap fettuccine for penne or rotini; the tubular shapes capture the sauce beautifully. For extra indulgence, sprinkle crispy fried onions over the top for added crunch and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for long periods as the cheese may separate. This dish can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze before adding the cheese sauce; thaw and then prepare the sauce fresh when ready to eat.
Nutritional Notes
This pasta is a rich, indulgent meal, so moderation is key. Packed with protein from the beef and bacon, and calcium from the cheeses, it’s satisfying and nourishing. However, it is also high in calories and fat, making it ideal as an occasional treat or a special weekend dinner. Pairing it with fresh vegetables or a leafy salad helps balance the meal and adds fiber to aid digestion.
Pairing Ideas
Serve this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to cut through the richness, or pair with a light lager for beer lovers. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or iced tea, which also help balance the creamy flavors. For a dessert, consider something light like fresh berries or a simple fruit sorbet to finish the meal on a refreshing note.
Kid-Friendly Adjustments
This pasta is naturally appealing to kids due to its creamy cheese and familiar bacon flavor. Reduce spices slightly if preparing for young children. You can also mix in finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to sneak in nutrients without changing the flavor significantly. Using smaller pasta shapes like shells or elbow macaroni can make it easier for kids to eat.
Conclusion
Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate indulgent comfort meal, combining creamy cheese, savory beef, and smoky bacon in a rich, decadent sauce. Easy to make yet impressive in flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or feeding a hungry crowd. With simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation, you can bring a restaurant-style experience to your own kitchen. Serve it fresh, garnish with herbs, and enjoy every bite of this irresistible pasta.
