Creamy Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
It’s a burger. It’s a pasta. It’s the ultimate cheesy weeknight comfort food — all in one skillet!
When pasta meets everything you love about a bacon cheeseburger, magic happens. This dish is ridiculously creamy, rich with sharp cheddar, and loaded with savory ground beef and crispy bacon. Think mac and cheese meets Alfredo meets your favorite diner burger — all swirled together in one irresistible pan.
Perfect for busy nights, casual entertaining, or anytime you want a dinner that makes people go, “Whoa, what is that smell coming from the kitchen?”
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite short pasta (penne, shells, or rotini work great)
For the beef & sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For topping:
- 4–6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (or more — we won’t judge!)
- Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Make It Creamy & Cheesy
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil), then stir in the cheddar cheese.
Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, luscious sauce.
4. Combine It All
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.
Stir in half the crumbled bacon for extra flavor throughout.
5. Finish and Serve
Top with remaining crispy bacon, plus a sprinkle of green onions or parsley if you like.
Serve hot and get ready for some serious compliments.
Tips & Twists:
- Want it spicy? Stir in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add crunch: Try crumbling potato chips or fried onions on top for a burger-inspired crunch.
- Need it lighter? Swap half & half for the cream, or try ground turkey instead of beef.
Serving Size & Info:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 hearty portions
- Calories: Approx. 500 kcal per serving
This pasta is pure comfort — creamy, beefy, and loaded with all the good stuff. Serve it up family-style or straight from the skillet (no shame!). Got leftovers? Lucky you.
Want a burger-inspired salad or side dish to pair with this pasta? Just say the word!
