Description
This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a quick and indulgent dish featuring tender pasta, rich Alfredo sauce, and seasoned ground beef. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a family-friendly and satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add Dairy Ingredients: Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Add cream cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until combined and the sauce thickens.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring to coat with the Alfredo sauce.
- Mix with Pasta: Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Different Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, peas, or roasted red peppers.
- Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheese Substitutions: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago instead of Parmesan.
- Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use lean ground beef or turkey.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: creamy ground beef alfredo, easy beef pasta, homemade alfredo pasta, ground beef alfredo recipe, quick alfredo dinner