Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the Worcestershire sauce and season generously with salt and pepper. Once that’s nicely combined, it’s time to pour in the heavy cream. Cook it on medium heat, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens just slightly—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add both the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until they melt into that creamy heaven we’re looking for.
Combine the cooked penne and crispy bacon into the sauce, tossing everything until well-coated. If you fancy a little more sauce, you can reserve a bit of pasta water to add during this step—it helps everything stick together beautifully. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the pasta to soak in all that cheesy goodness.
Lastly, serve your Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta hot from the stovetop! Before serving, don’t forget to sprinkle it with some extra cheese or green onions for that extra flair. Trust me; your kitchen will smell unbelievable, and your family will be gathering around faster than you can say "dinner’s ready."
Pro Tips for Best Results
One of my favorite tips when making any kind of creamy pasta is to make sure you use freshly grated cheeses. I’ve tested this recipe using pre-shredded cheese, and while it works in a pinch, fresh cheese melts so much better and gives that velvety texture we all crave in a good alfredo.
I also recommend watching how much you season your dish, especially when you’re working with bacon and Worcestershire sauce, which can pack a salty punch. Taste it as you go! It’s always better to start with less and add more than to end up with a salty sauce.
Lastly, don’t skip on letting the pasta mingle with the sauce for a few minutes. It allows the flavors to blend beautifully and makes for a more cohesive dish. I’ve been amazed by the difference it makes in the overall taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve encountered—and even made myself—is overcooking the pasta. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly once combined with the sauce and bacon. Aim for al dente; the texture will be just right in the final dish! (See the next page below to continue…)