This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort dish that everyone in your family will love. It’s a perfect combination of smoky bacon, savory ground beef, and rich Alfredo sauce, all wrapped around tender penne pasta. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or need a satisfying dinner, this recipe will not disappoint!
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Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
12 oz penne pasta
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
Chopped parsley for garnish
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Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
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Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef and Bacon
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until browned and cooked through, then remove the beef and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Drain on a paper towel, crumble, and set aside.
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Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
1. In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer (do not boil).
3. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
4. Adjust the consistency with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Step 4: Combine Everything
1. Add the cooked penne pasta into the Alfredo sauce and stir until fully coated.
2. Add the cooked ground beef, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir gently until the cheeses melt and everything is well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
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Step 5: Serve and Garnish
1. Transfer the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for color and serve hot.
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Tips for the Best Loaded Pasta
1. Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grate the cheeses for the smoothest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well.
2. Save Some Bacon for Topping: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Balance the Creaminess: If the Alfredo sauce is too thick, thin it with reserved pasta water or a splash of milk.
4. Add Vegetables: Try sautéing mushrooms, onions, or spinach to make it heartier.
5. Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a subtle heat.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a light, crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of iced tea or lemonade balances the richness perfectly.
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Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Freeze: This pasta dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults will love the creamy, cheesy flavors.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks, game nights, or dinner parties.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, swap out proteins, or experiment with different cheeses.
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Final Thoughts
This Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta combines everything you crave in a single dish. It’s hearty, creamy, and packed with rich, cheesy flavors. From busy weeknights to special gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. Serve it up, sit back, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!