Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Looking for a comforting and rich dinner that’s quick to prepare? Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is the perfect solution. This indulgent dish combines savory ground beef, a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta for a hearty meal that will satisfy your cravings. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that packs all the flavors of a traditional Alfredo with the added richness of ground beef, making it a family favorite in no time.

The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan creates a deep, flavorful sauce that clings to each noodle, while the creamy texture balances the beef perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s made in just one skillet and a pot for the pasta, making cleanup easy! This is comfort food at its best.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Sauce

The creamy Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese gives this dish its indulgent richness, making it a crowd-pleaser.

2. Quick and Easy

In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, homemade meal ready, perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving comfort food.

3. Hearty and Filling

Ground beef adds a satisfying, protein-packed element to the dish, making it a complete meal that will leave everyone full and satisfied.

4. Family-Friendly

With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.

5. One-Pot Wonder

This recipe requires minimal pots and pans—just a skillet for the beef and a pot for the pasta, making it easier to cook and clean up.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Fettuccine pasta
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Include mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use Different Pasta: You can swap the fettuccine for any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the fettuccine pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce, ensuring every noodle is covered with the rich cream sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Be sure to cook the ground beef until browned but not overdone to maintain its juiciness and flavor.
• Simmer the Sauce Gently: Keep the sauce on low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t burn.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce than pre-shredded cheese, giving you a creamier result.
• Reserve Some Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve a small cup of pasta water. You can add a little to the sauce to help thin it out if it becomes too thick.

How to Serve

Serve the creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. The richness of the sauce pairs well with fresh, crisp vegetables or a light citrusy dressing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

While this dish can be frozen, the cream sauce may change in texture once reheated. If freezing, store the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove, adding extra cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Stir in a little extra cream or milk to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken will work well as a leaner alternative to beef.

2. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Parmesan provides a distinct flavor, but you can also try pecorino Romano, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes to make this dish dairy-free.

5. How can I thicken the sauce?

If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it a little longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in water.

6. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Definitely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta shape, such as penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni.

7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

8. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

This pasta is best served fresh, but you can make the sauce in advance and combine it with the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

9. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Cook the sauce over low heat and avoid bringing it to a boil. Stir the sauce frequently to maintain a smooth consistency.

10. Can I freeze this pasta?

While you can freeze this dish, the cream sauce may not hold up well once thawed. If you do freeze it, be sure to add extra cream when reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a perfect balance of hearty meat, creamy sauce, and tender pasta. It’s a flavorful, comforting dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and indulgent enough to be a special treat. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this rich, delicious meal on the table in no time, making it a favorite for busy nights or when you’re craving something creamy and satisfying.

Print