Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Ground Beef

Introduction

Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, this Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for dinner. The rich Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with tender ground beef and your favorite pasta, creating a hearty meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni)
  • 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Ground Beef:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce and thickens slightly (3-4 minutes).
  • Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Combine Everything:

  • Add the cooked pasta and browned ground beef to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to ensure the pasta and beef are well-coated with the creamy sauce.

5. Serve and Garnish:

  • Divide the pasta into bowls or plates.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  • Optional: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Tips for Success

  1. Cheese Quality Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creamy texture. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
  2. Pasta Choice: While fettuccine is a classic choice for Alfredo, penne or rigatoni works perfectly to hold the sauce and beef.
  3. Make It Your Own: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

2. Can I use a meat alternative?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles work wonderfully in place of ground beef.

3. Can I make it lighter?

Swap heavy cream with half-and-half and use lean ground beef or turkey for a lighter version.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 24g

Conclusion

This Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Ground Beef is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. With its rich, cheesy sauce and hearty ground beef, it’s comfort food at its finest.

What’s your favorite pasta dish? Share your ideas in the comments below!

Enjoyed this recipe? Don’t forget to try our other pasta creations!

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