Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that combines savory ground beef, silky Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine. This indulgent meal is quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner that feels like a special treat. With creamy sauce and tender beef, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Cook the Pasta: While the beef cooks, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet with the cooked ground beef, add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta hot.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Use Different Pasta: Swap fettuccine for penne, spaghetti, or any pasta you prefer.
- Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- Cheese Varieties: Mix in mozzarella, Asiago, or fontina cheese for a different flavor twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture if needed.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as a substitute for ground beef.
- Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove before adding the pasta.
- Can I freeze this dish? While the pasta and sauce can be frozen, the texture of the Alfredo sauce may change after freezing and reheating.
- Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese? Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan cheese will give a richer and creamier texture to the sauce.
- How can I make the sauce thicker? To thicken the sauce, you can add a little more Parmesan cheese or cook the sauce for longer to reduce it.
- Can I use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream? Yes, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Heavy cream gives the best texture.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce? Yes, for a quicker option, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce and skip the cream and Parmesan.
- What can I serve with this pasta? A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables would complement this dish perfectly.
- How can I adjust the seasoning? Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic to your preference.
Conclusion
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that’s easy to make yet rich in flavor. The combination of tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and fettuccine pasta makes for a perfect meal any night of the week. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!