There is something absolutely comforting and indulgent about the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe that makes it a beloved dish for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to cozy weekend meals. This recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta with hearty, savory ground beef and a velvety Alfredo sauce that clings beautifully to every strand. The rich Parmesan and heavy cream create that signature luscious texture, while a hint of garlic and Italian seasoning brings the flavors to life. Whether you’re craving a quick skillet meal or a satisfying crowd-pleaser, this dish is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity and balance of flavors. Every ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color in the final dish.
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne): Choose your favorite shape; fettuccine is classic, while penne grabs onto the sauce deliciously.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty, savory star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the beef and enhancing depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and a touch of pungency to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings creaminess and helps build the base of the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The secret to the rich and velvety texture of the Alfredo.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, nutty, and essential for authentic Alfredo taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that adds complexity and brightness.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick that lifts the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the components.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: A pop of fresh green color and a mild herbal note.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid is key for adjusting your sauce’s texture later on!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula, and cook until it is nicely browned and cooked through. This step creates a robustly flavorful base that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Drain any excess grease if necessary to keep the dish balanced and not overly oily.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Butter
Lower the heat slightly, then add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet with the beef. Let them cook together for about a minute until fragrant and the butter melts. This combination infuses the base with rich aroma and smoothness, setting the stage for the Alfredo sauce.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want that gentle heat. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Stir the mixture evenly and let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet with your luxurious sauce and beef. Toss everything together so every piece of pasta is enveloped in creamy goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you get the perfect silky consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a lovely burst of color and a subtle herbal freshness that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, you can also grate a little more Parmesan and sprinkle it over before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread on the side is perfect for savoring every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe in individual bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh basil or a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet twist. You could even bake it briefly with a sprinkle of mozzarella for a bubbly, cheesy finish that will captivate everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making for an easy and satisfying next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind the pasta might absorb some sauce and change texture slightly. Freeze in portions inside freezer-safe containers, and try to consume within one month for the best flavor.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce and keep it creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter alternative and works great in the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as turkey cooks a bit faster.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You could substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter, unsweetened almond or oat cream, and dairy-free Parmesan to make a dairy-free version, though the flavor will be somewhat different.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during the sauce-making step. Freshly chopped jalapeños can also kick up the heat if you love it fiery.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a crowd?
Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine just before serving. Cook the pasta and sauce ahead, store in the fridge, then reheat together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for the best texture.
What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?
Fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, but penne or rigatoni work beautifully too since their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. Choose what you love or what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe is truly a winner when you want comfort, convenience, and incredible flavor all in one dish. It’s simple enough to whip up any night of the week but decadent enough to feel special. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your home just like it is in mine!
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Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and comforting ground beef Alfredo pasta made with tender pasta, rich heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, and perfectly browned ground beef, all tossed together in a flavorful skillet sauce. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté Garlic and Butter: Add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and the butter has melted.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Simmer the sauce gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat well. Use some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Finish and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the pasta garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- For extra richness and gooey texture, stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or a dollop of cream cheese into the sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef for a different flavor profile.
