Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Introduction

This creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta quickly became a favorite in our house. It’s one of those recipes that’s both comforting and indulgent, with the rich Alfredo sauce and savory ground beef making it the perfect dinner after a long day. When I first made this dish, my family immediately asked for seconds—and even thirds! The combination of the creamy sauce, the slightly nutty Parmesan, and the tender pasta made every bite irresistible. It’s a great dish for busy weeknights but also special enough for a weekend meal or family gathering. I’ve made it multiple times now, and it always gets rave reviews!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine Beef and Pasta: Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, making sure everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, indulgent pasta dish!

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 650
• Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 700mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a simple green salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the pasta.
• For a little extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick.
• Serve with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
• Top with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor and color.

Additional Tips

1. Pasta Variety: Feel free to swap out fettuccine for any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
2. Richness: For an even richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or try adding a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
3. Seasonings: Customize the flavor by adding Italian seasoning or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
4. Leftovers: This dish reheats well, but make sure to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to maintain the sauce’s smooth texture.
5. Vegetable Add-ins: You can add mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a veggie-packed version of this dish.

Recipe Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These leaner meats still provide a great texture and flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils to create a vegetarian version of this creamy pasta.
• Spicy Alfredo: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy twist.
• Garlic Butter Alfredo: For a richer, buttery flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce along with the cream.
• Cheese Variations: Mix in a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella or Gouda, for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• For Dinner: Serve as the main course, along with a fresh green salad and breadsticks.
• For a Family Gathering: This recipe can easily be doubled for a larger group. Serve with appetizers like bruschetta or antipasto platters.
• For Meal Prep: Divide the pasta into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Storage: Store leftover creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When reheating, be sure to stir frequently and add a bit of cream or milk if necessary to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for the ground beef.
2. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
   Yes, you can use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives like coconut milk and vegan Parmesan to make it dairy-free.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Absolutely! You can swap fettuccine for spaghetti, penne, or any pasta you prefer.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the sauce and beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat and cook the pasta when ready to serve.
5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   To thicken the sauce, simmer it for a few more minutes, or add more Parmesan cheese to help it bind.
6. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
   Fresh garlic adds a wonderful flavor, so it’s highly recommended in this recipe.
7. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
   Yes, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
8. Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?
   For a lighter sauce, you can substitute milk, but it won’t be as thick and creamy. Heavy cream is best for that indulgent, rich texture.
9. How long does the creamy Alfredo sauce stay fresh?
   The sauce will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, but for the best texture, it’s best to enjoy it right away.
10. What can I serve this pasta with?
    This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta is a hearty and satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The richness of the creamy sauce paired with the savory ground beef creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously indulgent meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a weekend get-together, this creamy pasta will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!

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