Description

Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a comforting fusion dish that combines the rich creaminess of Alfredo sauce with the savory taste of cheeseburger ingredients. Ground beef seasoned with classic burger spices is mixed with a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce and tossed with tender pasta, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Pasta

1 pound pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite shape)

Alfredo Sauce

4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for serving
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for serving

Toppings and Mix-ins

1/4 cup chopped dill pickles, plus more for serving
1/4 cup chopped tomatoes, plus more for serving
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 tablespoons ketchup
Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, sesame seeds

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Instructions

Prepare the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain pasta and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet or Dutch oven (wipe clean if needed), melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy. Adjust thickness by adding reserved pasta water as needed. Stir in yellow mustard and ketchup, adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly. Incorporate the cooked ground beef mixture into the pasta and sauce, mixing well. Stir in chopped dill pickles and chopped tomatoes.
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan, cheddar, mozzarella, chopped dill pickles, chopped tomatoes, and optional toppings like crumbled bacon, chopped red onion, or sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

Use whole milk and heavy cream for the creamiest Alfredo sauce.
Drain the ground beef well to avoid greasy pasta.
Reserve pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency smoothly.
Customize toppings as desired for added crunch or flavor.
For spicier kick, don’t skip the cayenne pepper.
Use freshly grated cheeses for best melt and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American