Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Main

01 - 2 tablespoons butter
02 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if you want some spice)
03 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
05 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
06 - 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
07 - 1 1/2 cups cheddar, shredded
08 - 1 cup beef broth
09 - 2 cups heavy cream
10 - 8 oz of your favorite short pasta (elbow, rotini, or penne)
11 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
12 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
14 - 1 teaspoon salt
15 - 1 lb ground beef

→ For garnish

16 - 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
17 - 1/4 cup bacon bits, crispy
18 - 1/4 cup pickles, diced

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Sprinkle over fresh parsley, a handful of bacon bits, and chopped pickles at the end, then dig in right away.
02 - Toss your cooked pasta back into the pan. Make sure all those noodles get coated in that cheesy goodness. Let it bubble for a couple minutes so it’s nice and hot.
03 - Turn the heat down, then toss in both cheeses a little at a time, stirring until it’s all melted and you’ve got a smooth, creamy sauce.
04 - Melt the butter into the beef. Pour in heavy cream and broth, then add the Worcestershire, Dijon, smoked paprika, and some red pepper flakes if you want. Mix until everything is blended.
05 - Cook the beef up in a big skillet over medium. Toss in salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder as you go. Once it’s browned, drain off any greasiness.
06 - Boil pasta in salted water until it's just firm. Drain it and set it aside for now.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Go veggie by swapping the beef for mushrooms or a meatless option.
02 - Like things hot? Pile on more red pepper flakes or add jalapeño slices.
03 - Toss in spinach or some bell pepper if you want extra veggies.
04 - For something different, try mozzarella, gouda, or a mix instead of cheddar.