Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta: A Comforting, Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

1. Introduction

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors and hearty textures to create a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. If you’re a fan of classic Alfredo sauce but want a more filling, savory twist, this recipe has it all. The creamy sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese is silky smooth and coats every fettuccine noodle with indulgent flavor. Ground beef adds a layer of heartiness to the dish, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Not only is this dish flavorful, but it’s also simple to make, requiring only a few basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. In just about 35 minutes, you can have a restaurant-worthy meal on your table that the whole family will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a comforting dinner, Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta will quickly become a favorite.

With easy-to-follow directions and minimal prep work, even beginner cooks will find success with this recipe. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness, and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple!

2. Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz fettuccine noodles, cooked
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

3. Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain the excess grease and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the butter and melt over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, whisking constantly to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form in the sauce. Continue stirring to create a smooth mixture.
4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the sauce, and stir to combine.
5. Cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
7. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauce.
8. Toss in the cooked fettuccine noodles, ensuring they are well-coated with the Alfredo sauce.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

4. How to Prepare

To make this dish, start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet. Once fully cooked, drain the grease and set the beef aside. Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to form a roux. This step ensures your sauce will be thick and creamy. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream to avoid lumps, then add seasonings to build flavor.

As the sauce thickens, melt in Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy texture. Add the cooked beef back into the pan and stir to combine the flavors. Finally, toss in your cooked fettuccine, making sure the noodles are evenly coated in the creamy beef Alfredo sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, herby finish, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

5. Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

6. Servings

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

7. FAQs

Q1: Can I substitute the ground beef with another type of meat?
Yes! You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

Q2: How can I make this dish lighter?
To make a lighter version, use half-and-half or reduced-fat milk instead of heavy cream. You can also opt for leaner ground meats like ground turkey or chicken.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the noodles ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce on the stove and combine with freshly reheated noodles when ready to serve.

Q4: What can I serve alongside this pasta?
A fresh garden salad or garlic bread would pair perfectly with this rich dish. For a lighter side, try roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.

Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

8. Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is the perfect balance of rich, creamy sauce and hearty ground beef. This comforting dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for those busy nights when you need a satisfying meal without a lot of effort. The simple combination of milk, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that’s both rich and flavorful, while the addition of ground beef adds a delicious savory note that will please any meat lover.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility—you can customize the protein or lighten the ingredients to suit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re preparing a family meal, entertaining guests, or simply indulging in a delicious bowl of pasta, Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is sure to hit the spot.

Give this recipe a try for dinner tonight, and enjoy the comfort and joy of homemade Alfredo pasta with a hearty twist. Bon appétit!

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