Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta. This dish features tender pasta coated in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, combined with seasoned ground beef for a hearty, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is easy to make and bursting with creamy, savory flavors.

A Hearty and Creamy Pasta Dish

If you love the classic flavors of Alfredo pasta but want a more filling and protein-packed meal, this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is the perfect choice. The combination of juicy, well-seasoned ground beef with a luscious, homemade Alfredo sauce creates a comforting dish that is sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you’re serving it as a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, this pasta is both easy to prepare and packed with indulgent flavors. The best part? It comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

To create this rich and satisfying dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to form the perfect balance of flavors.

• Pasta – Use penne, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice. These shapes hold the creamy sauce well, ensuring every bite is deliciously coated.
• Ground Beef – Provides a hearty, savory flavor and pairs beautifully with the Alfredo sauce. Use lean ground beef for a balanced texture.
• Butter – Adds richness to the Alfredo sauce, giving it a smooth, velvety consistency.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce. It blends beautifully with the creamy ingredients.
• Heavy Cream – The key to a thick, creamy Alfredo sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, creating a rich and slightly tangy flavor.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds depth and enhances the taste.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings that bring out the best flavors in every ingredient.
• Parsley (optional) – Fresh chopped parsley adds a touch of color and freshness to the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

This dish comes together in a few easy steps, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese

Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring, allowing it to melt and blend into the sauce for a smooth consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring it into the Alfredo sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

How Long to Cook Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta and your preferred consistency. Here’s a general guideline:

• Pasta Cooking Time – Most pasta varieties take 8-12 minutes to cook until al dente. Always check the package instructions.
• Ground Beef Cooking Time – Browning ground beef typically takes 5-7 minutes over medium heat, or until no pink remains.
• Alfredo Sauce Simmering Time – The sauce should simmer for 3-5 minutes after adding the heavy cream and Parmesan, ensuring a thick, creamy consistency.
• Final Mixing and Heating – Once combined, let everything cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat to allow flavors to meld.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have extra Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta, you can store it properly to enjoy later.

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
• Freezer – While Alfredo sauce can change texture when frozen, you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips for the Best Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time!

• Use Fresh Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese may not melt smoothly, so always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook it al dente since it will continue to absorb the sauce after mixing.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce thickens too much, add a little reserved pasta water, cream, or milk to loosen it.
• Season at Every Step – Layering flavors by seasoning the beef, pasta water, and sauce ensures a more flavorful dish.
• Experiment with Add-Ins – Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for a lighter version of this dish.

2. What pasta works best for Alfredo?
Fettuccine is classic, but penne, rigatoni, or farfalle work well to hold the creamy sauce.

3. How do I prevent my sauce from becoming grainy?
Use freshly grated Parmesan and avoid overheating the sauce, as high heat can cause it to separate.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook everything ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat with a splash of cream to keep it creamy.

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