Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo (Print-Friendly Version)

Indulgent pasta with savory bacon, juicy beef, creamy cheese sauce, and fresh parsley for vibrant flavor.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ Main Components

01 - 450 grams dried pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
02 - 450 grams bacon, cut into small pieces
03 - 450 grams ground beef

→ Sauce & Flavor Base

04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 1 medium onion, diced
06 - 1 clove garlic, minced
07 - 240 millilitres heavy cream
08 - 120 grams shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 120 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 100 grams grated Parmesan cheese
11 - salt, to taste
12 - black pepper, to taste

→ Finishing Touch

13 - fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# How to Prepare:

01 - Set the oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with aluminium foil.
02 - Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, then chop into bits.
04 - In the same skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary, then remove beef from the skillet and set aside.
05 - Add olive oil to the skillet and sauté the diced onion over medium heat until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
06 - Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
07 - Season the sauce generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
08 - Add drained pasta, bacon bits, and cooked ground beef to the skillet. Toss until everything is thoroughly coated in the sauce.
09 - Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Optionally sprinkle with extra cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and the top is bubbling.
10 - Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
02 - For a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon and lean ground turkey.
03 - To add spice, mix in crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh jalapeños with the sauce.
04 - Avoid overcooking the pasta; it will finish in the oven and should remain al dente.
05 - For additional flavour and nutrients, consider stirring in diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
06 - If the Alfredo sauce is too thick, thin with a splash of chicken or vegetable broth.