Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- First things first, let's get the pasta cooking. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook it until it's al dente—firm but with a slight bite. Follow the package directions for timing, then drain it and set it aside for a bit.
- While the pasta is bubbling away, heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and use a wooden spoon to break it apart. Let it brown nicely, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once it's cooked through, carefully drain off any excess grease from the pan.
- Now it's time to build that classic burger flavor. Sprinkle the onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the browned beef. Give it a good stir to make sure every piece of meat is coated in those delicious spices. Let it cook for another minute to really toast the seasonings.
- Turn the heat down to low. Pour in the Alfredo sauce, stirring it into the beef until everything is beautifully combined. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, just enough for the flavors to meld and the sauce to heat through completely.
- Grab your cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the beefy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated. Now for the best part: stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted, creating a ridiculously creamy and smooth sauce.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. It's time for the 'loaded' toppings! Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and diced dill pickles over the top. If you're going for the full experience, add some fresh tomatoes or a bit of shredded lettuce right before you serve.
- Scoop your masterpiece into bowls and serve it up hot. This cheesy, meaty pasta is pure comfort in a bowl, a classic with a fun and flavorful twist.
Notes
For the creamiest sauce, shred your own cheese from a block. Reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water to thin the sauce if it gets too thick. To reheat leftovers, use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of milk or cream. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef, or add red pepper flakes for heat.
