Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce and seasoned ground beef. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something filling and satisfying. The creamy sauce complements the savory beef, making each bite indulgent and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food in a bowl!
Ingredients:
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking pasta)
- Salt, to taste
- For the Ground Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Toss the pasta with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the oregano, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to simmer. Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Beef with the Alfredo Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the ground beef and onions. Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the pasta and beef mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavor of this satisfying dish!
Variation:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef while cooking for a bit of heat. You can also stir in some chopped jalapeños.
- Chicken Alfredo: For a lighter alternative, substitute the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken for a Chicken Alfredo Pasta.
COOKING Note:
- Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly in the sauce.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, you can use all heavy cream instead of mixing with milk.
- To avoid the sauce from separating, make sure the heat is low when adding the cheese to the cream mixture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Sides: Serve the creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Tips:
- Leftovers: This pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to maintain its creamy texture.
- Perfect Pasta: To ensure your pasta doesn’t get overcooked, set a timer and check it a minute or two before the package suggests. Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce.
- Customizable: This recipe is easily customizable with your favorite herbs and seasonings. Fresh basil, thyme, or Italian seasoning can all be added to the beef mixture for additional flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g (of which saturated fat is 17g)
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While fettuccine or penne is traditionally used, you can swap it for any pasta shape you like, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or farfalle.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the ground beef ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine everything when you’re ready to serve. The pasta can also be pre-cooked and refrigerated.
3. Can I freeze creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta?
Yes, this dish freezes well! After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.
Conclusion
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a satisfying and indulgent meal that brings together the comforting richness of Alfredo sauce with the savory goodness of ground beef. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying a delicious plate of pasta in no time. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this creamy, hearty pasta is guaranteed to be a hit!