Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

Creamy, juicy, and wildly comforting — Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the mashup your weeknight dinners have been dreaming of. Imagine all the cheeseburger flavors you love — browned beef, melty cheddar, crisp onions, and tangy pickles — folded into a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s quick to make, wildly satisfying, and family-approved every single time. If you love exploring pasta comfort foods, check out some other favorites in our simple pasta recipes collection to get inspired.

This recipe is perfect when you want something indulgent that doesn’t require takeout. It’s cozy, flavorful, and comes together fast — ideal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend treat.

What is Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta?

Why the quirky name? Because it’s exactly what it sounds like — a loaded cheeseburger turned into pasta. Who hasn’t wondered what would happen if a cheeseburger and Alfredo sauce had a delicious baby? It’s cheesy, a little bit saucy, and outrageously comforting. Is it a burger? Is it pasta? It’s both, and that’s the fun of it. After one bite, you might just agree with the old adage: “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Try it and see why friends and family call it irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This

• Comfort in a bowl: The creamy Alfredo pairs perfectly with savory ground beef and sharp cheddar, delivering a luxurious texture and rich flavor that hits all the comfort-food notes.
• Budget-friendly and filling: Make a big pot for less than the cost of takeout — a little goes a long way, and leftovers stretch into lunches all week.
• Flavor-packed toppings: Tangy dill pickles, caramelized onions, or extra crispy bacon (optional add-in) take this dish from good to unforgettable.

If you enjoyed the bold mashup flavors in our cheeseburger burritos, this pasta will be right up your alley. Don’t wait — make it this week and watch it disappear!

How to Make

Quick Overview
This recipe is easy, delicious, and deeply satisfying. You’ll brown beef, simmer a creamy Alfredo base, melt in cheddar, and toss in pasta for a rich, decadent finish. Standout elements are the creamy sauce and the juicy, savory beef. Total time: about 25–30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 15–20 minutes cooking).

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving a half cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion and 2 cloves minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
3. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in 2 cups heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the cream come to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t scorch.
5. Gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated in the cheesy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
7. Stir in 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles if using, for a burst of tang and crunch that brightens the dish.
8. Serve hot, garnish with extra shredded cheddar or chopped green onions if desired, and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness.

What to Serve With

• Crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Roasted or steamed broccoli for a simple, healthy side.
• Garlic bread or a toasted baguette for dipping into every last bit of sauce.
• Pickled jalapeños or a tangy coleslaw for extra contrast.
• Serve with an ice-cold soda or an easy red wine like a Merlot to complement the beefy flavors.

Top Tips for Perfecting

• Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor. A mix of sharp cheddar and a little mozzarella will give both flavor and silkiness.
• Don’t overheat the cream — keep the heat moderate so the sauce stays smooth and doesn’t separate.
• If the sauce gets too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Brown the beef well. Those browned bits add deep, savory flavor to the sauce.
• For extra crunch and smoky flavor, crisp some bacon and sprinkle on top before serving.
• If you want more tang without pickles, try a tablespoon of pickle juice or a splash of white wine vinegar.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container, but texture may change slightly on thawing due to the cream.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream and stirring to restore creaminess. Microwaving works too — heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
• Best practice: If possible, reheat only the portion you’ll eat to preserve quality for future meals.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes — rotini, rigatoni, or penne are great choices because they hold the sauce well. Use your favorite pasta shape.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
To lighten it, swap heavy cream for half-and-half and reduce the cheese slightly. Note the sauce will be less rich but still tasty.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead and store them separately from the pasta for up to 2 days. Reheat and combine just before serving.

What if I don’t like pickles?
The pickles are optional. Try chopped tomatoes, caramelized onions, or pickled jalapeños for different flavor profiles.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes — ground turkey or chicken work fine. Brown and season well; you may want to add a touch more salt and seasoning to boost flavor.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is a delightful, easy-to-make twist on two beloved comfort foods — and it’s proof that simple ingredients can make an unforgettable meal. It’s creamy, savory, and customizable, perfect for busy nights or when you want to spoil the people you love. Give it a try this week and share it around the table — leftovers make great lunches too. For inspiration on other creative cheeseburger-style dishes, check out this excellent recipe for Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta — Hanson Family Meats.