Beef Alfredo Pasta Skillet
Beefy Alfredo Pasta Skillet: A Comforting All-in-One Meal
Are you looking for a satisfying dish that brings together rich flavors, creamy textures, and nutritional goodness in one pan? Look no further than this Beefy Alfredo Pasta Skillet! This hearty recipe combines ground beef, pasta, and broccoli in a luscious Alfredo sauce, making for an ideal weeknight dinner that’s ready in just 35 minutes.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Beefy Alfredo Pasta Skillet is not only a treat for your taste buds but also incredibly versatile. It takes less than 35 minutes from start to finish, which means you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on busy days. Plus, this dish packs a punch with protein from the ground beef and a good dose of vegetables with the added broccoli. Families will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, while busy cooks will appreciate the one-pan clean-up.
Ingredients
Before diving into the direction details, let’s look at what you will need:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
– 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 1½ cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1½ cups broccoli florets
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once heated, add the ground beef into the skillet. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Depending on the fat content of your beef, you might want to drain any excess fat before proceeding.
Step 2: After the beef is nicely browned, introduce the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. This step creates a solid flavor foundation for your dish.
Step 3: Now, stir in 2 cups of uncooked penne pasta along with 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth, 1½ cups of milk, and ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to bubble just enough to ensure everything is cooked evenly.
Step 4: Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to become tender while most of the liquid is absorbed. Keeping it covered retains moisture, enhancing the flavors further.
Step 5: After the pasta reaches the desired al dente texture, carefully stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. For the best results, blend them well until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy sauce that envelops every piece of pasta.
Step 6: Next, add in the 1½ cups of broccoli florets. Cover the skillet again, allowing it to simmer for another 5 minutes. This step ensures the broccoli is tender yet remains bright green, adding not only nutrition but also a beautiful pop of color.
Step 7: Finally, season your dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Once seasoned, remove it from the heat and let it sit uncovered for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it even more indulgent.
Step 8: Before serving, garnish your Beefy Alfredo Pasta Skillet with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot straight from the skillet for a delightful, comforting meal.
Pro Tips for Making Beefy Alfredo Pasta Skillet
1. **Use Lean Ground Beef:** Opt for lean ground beef (around 80/20) to keep the dish healthier. Lower-fat meat options result in less grease to drain.
2. **Substitutions:** If you prefer turkey or chicken, they can be easily substituted for ground beef without compromising texture or flavor.
3. **Vegetable Varieties:** Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers to make this dish even more nutritious.
4. **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.
5. **Perfecting Creaminess:** For extra creaminess, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or reduce the amount of beef broth slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove, adding a little milk to keep it creamy.
What can I serve with this Beefy Alfredo Pasta Skillet?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While you can freeze it, be aware that the pasta may become softer upon reheating. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply add more vegetables for a meatless dish.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne works great, but you can experiment with other pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Conclusion
Incorporating this Beefy Alfredo Pasta Skillet into your weekly meal rotation not only simplifies dinner prep but also guarantees satisfaction for the entire family. With rich flavors, creamy textures, and a complete meal in one pan, it’s a winner for weeknights. Grab your skillet and whisk up this hearty dish that will soon become a cherished favorite. Enjoy!
