Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Introduction

I first made this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta on a rainy evening when I was craving comfort food. The moment I took the first bite, I knew it was a keeper. The richness of the creamy Alfredo sauce paired perfectly with the savory ground beef and the tender fettuccine. It was the kind of meal that made everyone in the family smile, and it quickly became a staple in our dinner rotation. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it’s also simple to make, which is always a win. If you’re looking for a creamy, indulgent pasta dish that everyone will love, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

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Why You’ll Love Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

• Creamy and Comforting: The rich Alfredo sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese coats the pasta perfectly, creating a creamy texture that’s both comforting and indulgent.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful: The combination of savory ground beef, garlic, and nutmeg adds depth to the flavor profile, while the Parmesan cheese provides a delightful sharpness that complements the creaminess.
• Customizable: This recipe is versatile. You can swap out the ground beef for other proteins, such as ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage, depending on your preferences.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and familiar pasta make this dish a hit with kids, and the flavor is mild enough to please picky eaters.

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Ingredients

To make Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or your preferred protein)
• 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)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally as the cream heats up. Once the cream starts simmering, add the grated Parmesan cheese and ground nutmeg. Stir the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 4: Combine Beef and Pasta

Return the browned ground beef to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, and stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, serve the creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta hot. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra burst of flavor.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 600-700 kcal (varies based on portion size and specific ingredients used)
• Total Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 30g

(Note: The nutrition facts may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size used.)

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes (for chopping garlic and preparing the beef)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (for browning the beef, making the sauce, and cooking the pasta)
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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How to Serve

Here are some ways to serve and enjoy your Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta:

• With a Side Salad: Pair the pasta with a light salad to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce. A simple Caesar or garden salad works well.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy, buttery garlic bread for a truly indulgent meal. The bread will help soak up the extra sauce from the pasta.
• With Steamed Vegetables: To add more color and nutrition, serve the pasta alongside some steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
• For a Party: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it a great option for family gatherings or potlucks. Just double the recipe and serve in a large bowl.
• Leftovers: This dish makes excellent leftovers, so you can enjoy the creamy pasta for lunch or dinner the next day.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt more smoothly into the sauce compared to pre-grated cheese. It also provides a richer flavor.
2. Add a Kick: If you like your Alfredo pasta with a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
3. Make It Lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter version of this dish, try using half-and-half or light cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef.
4. Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some sautéed vegetables, like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and add some extra nutrition.
5. Avoid Overcooking the Beef: When browning the ground beef, make sure it doesn’t dry out. Cook until it’s just browned, and then remove it from the skillet so it stays tender.

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FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti would work well.
2. Can I use a different meat?
   Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and brown the meat in advance. Reheat the sauce and beef before adding the pasta.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   This pasta can be frozen, but the texture of the cream sauce may change when reheated. To freeze, store the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
5. What if I don’t have nutmeg?
   Nutmeg adds a warm flavor, but it’s not essential. You can omit it or substitute with a pinch of ground white pepper for a subtle heat.
6. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
   To prevent the sauce from curdling, make sure to cook the heavy cream on low heat once it’s simmering. Stir constantly and don’t let it boil rapidly.
7. Can I make the sauce thicker?
   Yes, you can thicken the sauce by simmering it for longer or adding a slurry made with cornstarch and water.
8. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftover Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
9. Can I use a non-dairy cream?
   Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
10. Can I make this a one-pot dish?
    To make this a one-pot meal, cook the pasta in the same skillet with the beef and sauce, adding the pasta water to help combine the sauce and pasta.

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Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s both rich and flavorful, yet easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. With its creamy Alfredo sauce, hearty ground beef, and tender pasta, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Simple ingredients, quick preparation, and delicious results—what’s not to love? Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a creamy, indulgent pasta meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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