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This loaded bacon cheeseburger alfredo pasta brings together everything you love about a juicy burger and creamy pasta in one irresistible dish. The marriage of savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and rich alfredo sauce creates comfort food that's both familiar and exciting at the same time.
I first created this dish when my teenagers had friends over unexpectedly. They demolished the entire pot in minutes and now request it weekly. The combination of burger flavors with creamy pasta satisfies even the pickiest eaters in my home.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Provides the hearty burger foundation. Choose 80/20 for best flavor
- Bacon: Adds smoky crunch and depth. Thick cut works best here
- Penne pasta: Holds up well to the hearty sauce. The ridges catch more deliciousness
- Alfredo sauce: Creates the creamy base. Store bought works fine but homemade elevates it
- Cheddar cheese: Brings that classic burger taste. Sharp varieties add more flavor
- Chopped pickles: Offer bright acidity that cuts through richness. Trust me on this one
- Salt and pepper: To taste. The bacon adds saltiness so taste before adding more
How To Make Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
- Prep Your Ingredients:
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. While pasta cooks, cook and crumble the bacon until crisp. Chop pickles if using.
- Brown The Beef:
- Add ground beef to a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until no pink remains, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat but leave a tablespoon for flavor.
- Create The Sauce:
- Add the crumbled bacon to the beef and stir to combine. Pour in the alfredo sauce and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to meld flavors. If sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Combine And Finish:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top and stir gently until melted and incorporated. Fold in chopped pickles if using. The slight tanginess will brighten every bite.
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The secret ingredient that makes this dish special is definitely the pickles. I was skeptical at first too, but they provide that authentic burger experience that ties everything together. My husband, who initially questioned my sanity when adding pickles to pasta, now requests extra in his portion.
Make It Your Own
This versatile recipe welcomes customization based on your favorite burger toppings. Try adding diced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or even a drizzle of ketchup and mustard just before serving. For a spicy version, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. When I make this for adults only, I sometimes add a splash of bourbon to the sauce for sophisticated depth.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's silky texture. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. For best results, reserve some extra shredded cheese to sprinkle on top of reheated portions.
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Serving Suggestions
While this pasta is a complete meal on its own, I like to serve it with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread makes a perfect accompaniment for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce. For a fun presentation at parties, serve smaller portions in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese, bacon bits, and a tiny pickle slice garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or even macaroni for a similar texture and taste.
- → What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce?
If you don't have Alfredo sauce, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or even a rich cheese sauce for similar creaminess.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Diced onions, bell peppers, or peas would pair well and add more depth to this pasta dish.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components (cook the beef and bacon, cook the pasta) ahead of time and combine them with the sauce just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → What can I use instead of pickles?
If you don’t like pickles, you can skip them altogether or replace them with diced fresh tomatoes or jalapeños for a different flavor.