Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Oh boy, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite comfort foods – Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta! This dish is the epitome of cozy meals and brings back so many memories of family dinners when I was growing up. My mom would whip it up after a long day, and the rich, creamy sauce combined with the hearty ground beef always felt like a warm hug on a plate.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make. You don’t need to be a whizz in the kitchen to impress your friends or family – just a few basic ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious meal that feels a little fancy but is really perfect for any night of the week. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable! You can throw in veggies, switch up the type of pasta, or even add some zesty seasonings if you’re feeling adventurous. So let’s dive in!

What’s in Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta?

Pasta: This is the heart of the dish! I typically use fettuccine, but you could easily swap it for penne, rotini, or whatever pasta floats your boat. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente for that perfect bite.

Ground Beef: I prefer 80/20 ground beef for this recipe because the fat content helps create a nice, rich flavor. If you want to go healthier, you can use lean ground turkey or even swap it for some veggie crumbles!

Butter: A classic for that silky sauce! I use unsalted butter, so I can control the saltiness better.

Heavy Cream: This is what makes everything creamy and dreamy! Use heavy cream for the richest flavor, but you could also experiment with half-and-half if you want it a bit lighter.

Parmesan Cheese: Always, and I mean always, go for freshly grated cheese! It melts so much better than the pre-grated stuff and adds a depth of flavor you just can’t miss.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for me. It adds that aromatic burst to the sauce.

Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a dash of Italian seasoning go a long way in elevating the flavors. Sometimes I’ll even add a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want some heat – because who doesn’t love a bit of spice?

Is Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Good for You?

Alright, let’s keep it real – while this dish is undoubtedly delicious, it’s not what you would call “health food.” But hey, every now and then, we all deserve a little indulgence, right?

Ground Beef: This provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall energy. Just be mindful of the fat content if you’re watching those calories.

Heavy Cream: It’s definitely rich in calories and fat, but it also contains vitamins A and E. Consider using it sparingly and balancing it with some veggies, and it won’t be a total dietary disaster.

Parmesan Cheese: Packed with calcium and protein, this cheese is flavorful and can make your dish feel gourmet without adding too much.

Just remember, balance is key! Serve this with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad, and you’ll feel a lot less guilty about treating yourself to this creamy delight.

Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta (Serves 4)

– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
– Red pepper flakes (optional for some heat!)

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta?

1. **Cook the Pasta:** Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.

2. **Brown the Beef:** In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. **Add Butter and Garlic:** Reduce the heat to low. To the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4. **Pour in the Cream:** Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

5. **Add Cheese:** Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until reaching your desired sauce consistency.

6. **Combine Everything:** Toss in the cooked pasta and ground beef. Mix until everything is coated in that luscious creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.

7. **Serve:** Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if using. Enjoy your creamy creation!

Delicious Twists and Tips to Elevate Your Pasta Game!

– **Add Veggies:** Feel free to toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli while the sauce is simmering for a pop of color and nutrition.

– **Change It Up:** Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a little kick, or try using a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

– **Make Ahead:** This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just be sure to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to keep that sauce creamy.

So there you have it! A creamy, dreamy dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. I really encourage you to give this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta a try, and make it your own by adding your favorite flavors. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!

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