Loaded Beans Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
Description:
This Loaded Beans Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta is the perfect comfort food mashup — it combines the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger with the creamy decadence of Alfredo pasta. Savory ground beef, hearty beans, melty cheese, and creamy sauce come together for a bold and satisfying dish that’s packed with protein and rich flavor.
Total Time: 35 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
250g (9 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
300g (10 oz) ground beef (lean)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, for that burger tang)
1 cup canned beans (black beans or kidney beans), drained and rinsed
1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional for a jucy burger feel)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp
1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
1.5 cups milk (or half milk, half cream for richness)
1/2 cup cream (or use 2 cups milk total if avoding cream)
3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
Extra shredded cheese for topping
Chopped pickles (for burger zing)
Green onions or chives
Crumbled bacon (optional)
Hot sauce or ketchup drizzle
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef & Beans
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 3–4 minutes).
Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns (5–6 minutes).
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder.
Once beef is cooked, stir in beans and optional diced tomatoes. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add flour and whisk constantly to form a roux (about 1 minute).
Gradually whisk in milk (and cream if using), stirring until thickened (5–6 minutes).
Add cheddar and mozzarella. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt & pepper.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
Add drained pasta and Alfredo sauce into the beef-bean skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Top with extra cheese, pickles, or green onions as desired.
Nutritional Info (per serving, based on 4 servings):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~630 kcal
Protein ~34g
Carbohydrates ~50g
Fat ~34g
Saturated Fat ~15g
Fiber ~6g
Sugars ~6g
Sodium ~720mg
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but homemade is creamier and fresher. If using store-bought, heat it and mix it with cheese for more depth.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the ground beef and use plant-based crumbles or more beans and mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Q: What kind of beans work best?
Black beans or kidney beans are ideal. Pinto beans also work for a softer texture.
Q: Can this be baked for a casserole version?
Yes! After combining everything, pour into a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to
loosen the sauce