Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
A delicious fusion of creamy Alfredo pasta and the savory goodness of a loaded bacon cheeseburger. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Pasta and Base
- 8 oz Fettuccine Pasta Or your choice of pasta.
- 1 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Bacon and Dairy
- 5 strips Bacon Crisped and crumbled; turkey bacon is a healthier alternative.
- 2 cups Heavy Cream Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Consider using a sharp cheddar for more flavor.
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Or optional Italian blend.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Flavorings
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- Salt and Pepper To taste.
Optional Toppings
- Chopped green onions For extra cheeseburger flair.
- Diced tomatoes Optional.
- Pickles For a burst of flavor.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Preparing the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Remove and let them drain on paper towels before crumbling them into bite-sized pieces.
Browning the Beef
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for enhanced flavor. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Making the Alfredo Sauce
- Lower the heat, and to the beef mixture, add heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, allowing the sauce to thicken over medium-low heat, which should take about 5 minutes.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the sauce's creaminess. Stir well to coat all pasta evenly with the delicious sauce.
Serving the Dish
- Plate your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta and sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top, along with optional toppings like green onions or tomatoes for a burst of freshness. Enjoy!
Notes
Tips for success: Avoid overcooking pasta, skip pre-shredded cheese for better melt, and always reserve pasta water for the sauce.