If you’ve been on the lookout for a soul-warming dinner that perfectly balances rich flavors with hearty comfort, then this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender pasta coated in a luscious Alfredo sauce, loaded with savory ground beef for a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and homey. With every bite, you’ll experience the smooth creaminess of the sauce mingling flawlessly with the robust taste of seasoned beef, creating a dish that’s equally perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends on a casual night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of creaminess, flavor, and texture in this pasta dish. From the ground beef’s savory heartiness to the Parmesan’s sharp richness, everything comes together effortlessly.
- 1 lb ground beef: This is the savory star providing hearty flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Offers aromatic warmth that infuses the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter: Essential for cooking the beef and creating richness in the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The key to that truly creamy Alfredo texture everyone loves.
- 1 cup whole milk: Lightens the sauce slightly while contributing to the silky feel.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty punch that transforms the sauce into perfection.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Adds extra depth to the sauce’s savory profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balance.
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite): Holds the creamy sauce wonderfully and completes the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a bright, fresh finish when garnishing.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this ensures your pasta cooks evenly and is perfectly seasoned from the inside out. Add your choice of pasta and cook it just until al dente according to the package instructions. Then, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest of your meal.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat, and add the ground beef. Break it apart gently with your spoon and cook until the beef is fully browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Then, transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside for the sauce step.
Step 3: Create the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until they’re fragrant and translucent—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk along with the garlic powder and onion powder, stirring gently. Let this simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to marry all the flavors and begin to thicken the sauce.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Season
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously to melt the cheese completely and achieve a velvety texture. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking, remembering that Parmesan adds saltiness so start cautiously.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Pasta
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring it into the Alfredo sauce to coat each bite with savory flavor. Then add the drained pasta and toss everything gently until every strand or piece is enveloped in that creamy, dreamy sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that beautifully contrasts with the richness of the sauce. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a few shavings of Parmesan on top can elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This dish shines splendidly on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli pairs wonderfully, providing a bright and slightly crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe in rustic individual bowls or family-style on a large platter garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also bring a subtle kick if your guests enjoy a little heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce stays flavorful but may thicken in the fridge; a little stirring before reheating will bring it back to life.
Freezing
This pasta dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that Alfredo sauces can separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, pack it generously in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion, and consume within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Stirring frequently ensures the pasta heats evenly and remains creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can make a lighter version, but you might want to add extra seasoning to keep the flavor punch that ground beef naturally provides.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free alternative and ensure any seasonings or cheese used don’t contain gluten. The sauce and beef are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute to maintain that savory, meaty texture while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
What’s the best cheese to use for the Alfredo sauce?
Parmesan is classic because it melts smoothly and adds a rich, nutty flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan always works better than pre-grated for creaminess and taste.
How can I make this dish creamier?
Using full-fat heavy cream and fresh Parmesan helps. You can also add a little cream cheese or mascarpone to intensify the creaminess without diluting flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe has become one of my absolute go-to dishes when I want a meal that’s effortlessly impressive, comforting, and downright delicious. Its wonderful blend of simple ingredients comes together in a way that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation too!
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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: Italian-American
Description
A rich and creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta dish combining tender pasta, savory browned ground beef, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Dairy and Pantry
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or pasta of choice)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary, then set the beef aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, garlic powder, and onion powder; simmer the mixture gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine Beef and Pasta: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce and stir to combine. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Serve the creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the cream and milk slightly or simmer a bit longer.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields better flavor and melts more smoothly than pre-grated.
- Optional add-ins include sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for extra veggies.
