Description
This creamy and cheesy pasta is packed with seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, and a rich Alfredo sauce—combining all the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger in a comforting pasta dish. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp mustard (optional, for a burger-like flavor)
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup diced pickles (optional, for a cheeseburger twist)
- Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the beef – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Make the Alfredo sauce – In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a light simmer. Gradually whisk in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and mustard (if using) until smooth.
- Combine everything – Add the cooked pasta and ground beef to the Alfredo sauce, stirring to coat. Mix in the crumbled bacon.
- Serve & garnish – Top with extra cheese, diced pickles (if using), and chopped parsley or green onions. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a smoky twist, use smoked cheddar or add a dash of liquid smoke.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or gouda for a different flavor.
- Use store-bought Alfredo sauce for a quick shortcut.
Nutrition
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg