Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is the perfect dish when you’re craving something rich, comforting, and satisfying. With a creamy Alfredo sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and savory ground beef, this pasta dish brings together bold flavors that are sure to impress. Paired with fettuccine, it’s an easy-to-make, delicious meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz fettuccine pasta

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until it has melted and the sauce has thickened.
4. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasonings to your preference.
5. While the sauce is simmering, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the beef Alfredo sauce.
6. Toss the pasta and beef mixture together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Serve the creamy beef Alfredo pasta hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetable addition: Add some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
2. Spicy version: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or stirring in a diced jalapeño with the onions and garlic.
3. Cheese variety: For a more complex cheese flavor, mix in some shredded mozzarella or a blend of cheeses along with the Parmesan.
4. Ground turkey or chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish.
5. Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free fettuccine pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While the sauce can freeze, the texture may change once reheated. If freezing, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, any pasta shape you like can be used, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
2. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making my own?
   Yes, you can use jarred Alfredo sauce, but homemade sauce adds a richer, fresher flavor.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance, then add the pasta and heat everything together when ready to serve.
4. Is this recipe spicy?
   No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give it a kick if desired.
5. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
6. How do I make this dish lower in calories?
   Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey, use a reduced-fat version of Parmesan cheese, and swap heavy cream with a lighter option like milk or a milk alternative.
7. Can I add more garlic for extra flavor?
   Yes, feel free to add more garlic to taste for a stronger garlic flavor in the sauce.
8. How do I know when the pasta is done cooking?
   Follow the package instructions for al dente pasta, or taste a piece of pasta for the desired firmness.
9. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger group. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet or cook in batches.
10. What can I serve with this pasta?
    This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a quick, delicious, and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special family dinner. The rich Alfredo sauce, savory ground beef, and tender fettuccine pasta come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with extra vegetables and spices, this recipe is sure to be a hit every time.

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