Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that combines savory ground beef with a luscious Alfredo sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a comforting pasta dish. With its creamy texture and delicious flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 lb fettuccine pasta
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet with the ground beef, add the butter and minced garlic. Cook until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes, resulting in a total time of 30 minutes.
Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Add steamed broccoli or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or cream cheese for a unique flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Herbs: Add Italian herbs like oregano or basil for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well with this sauce. - What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter for a lighter sauce. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and store it separately, then combine with pasta before serving. - What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative can be used. - Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream sauce, but you can freeze the sauce separately. - How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. - What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely. - Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat. - Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of cheese for a cheesier dish. - How do I know when the pasta is al dente?
It should be firm to the bite, with a slight chewiness.
Conclusion
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and indulgent meal that is quick and easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy!