Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) penne or rotini pasta
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for a cheeseburger flavor boost)
• 1 tbsp mustard (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease and set aside.
3. Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Stir in heavy cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Melt Cheeses: Reduce heat to low and slowly add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in ketchup and mustard if using.
5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and ground beef to the skillet, stirring to coat everything in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Add pickles or other toppings if desired.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes