Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe: Cozy Comfort In A Bowl

Whipping up a delectable ground beef alfredo pasta promises pure comfort on chilly evenings.

Savory meat blends seamlessly with silky sauce, creating a restaurant-worthy meal at home.

Cheese and cream dance together, embracing tender pasta in their rich embrace.

Hearty protein adds substantial flavor to this classic Italian-inspired dish.

Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of creamy texture and robust beef.

Weeknight dinners just got more exciting with this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

You will absolutely love how quickly this crowd-pleasing meal comes together.

Why Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Is So Comforting

  • Savor Quick Comfort: This ground beef Alfredo pasta delivers ultimate satisfaction with minimal kitchen effort, perfect for busy weeknights when hunger strikes and time is short.
  • Master One-Pot Wonder: Combine protein and pasta in a single skillet, reducing cleanup and making meal preparation streamlined and stress-free for home cooks of all skill levels.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Explosion: Rich Parmesan sauce blended with seasoned ground beef creates a crowd-pleasing dish that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table walks away happy and full.
  • Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows simple ingredient swaps like different pasta shapes, adding vegetables, or switching protein types to match personal preferences and pantry availability.

Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that provides the protein base for this creamy pasta dish.
Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and luxurious sauce base that gives the dish its signature creamy texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce with its melting properties.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Onion, Garlic: Provide a foundational depth of flavor and aromatic base for the sauce.
  • Italian Seasoning: Brings a classic herb blend that enhances the overall taste profile.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the dish's flavors.
Pasta:
  • Fettuccine: A classic wide pasta that perfectly captures and holds the creamy Alfredo sauce.

How to Prepare Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Sizzle and Brown the Beef

Heat a spacious skillet over medium flame. Crumble ground beef into the pan, breaking it into small pieces while cooking. Allow the meat to develop a rich, golden-brown color, releasing delicious flavors. Toss in:
  • Diced onions
  • Minced garlic

Cook until the vegetables become translucent and fragrant, creating a mouthwatering base for your pasta.

Step 2: Create Luxurious Alfredo Sauce

Pour velvety heavy cream into the skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and blends into a smooth, creamy sauce. Enhance the flavor profile with:
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare Perfect Pasta

Fill a separate pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly, shaking off excess water.

Step 4: Combine and Coat

Transfer the cooked fettuccine directly into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Use tongs or a pasta spoon to gently toss and coat every strand of pasta, ensuring each bite is packed with rich, savory flavors. Stir until the pasta is completely covered in the luscious sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Plate the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta immediately while piping hot. Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped parsley for an added touch of elegance. Enjoy this comforting, restaurant-quality meal straight from your kitchen!

Pro Tips for Creamy Alfredo Pasta Success

  • Select lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a lighter sauce texture.
  • Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for richer, more authentic flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
  • Use low-sodium broth or water to control salt levels if watching sodium intake.
  • Allow sauce to simmer gently to prevent cream from separating and maintain smooth consistency.
  • Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrition if seeking healthier alternative.

Variations to Enhance Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

  • Spicy Southwest Beef Alfredo: Replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, add diced green chilies, and top with fresh cilantro for a zesty Mexican-inspired version.
  • Mediterranean Ground Beef Pasta: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and sprinkle with dried oregano for a Greek-style transformation.
  • Lean Turkey Alfredo: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter protein option, adding fresh spinach for extra nutrition and color.
  • Mushroom Beef Stroganoff Fusion: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, use sour cream instead of heavy cream, and garnish with chopped chives for a rich, earthy variation.

Pairing Suggestions for Alfredo Pasta

  • Boost Flavor Combinations: Red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon creates perfect harmony with the rich, creamy beef Alfredo, cutting through the sauce's richness while complementing the meat's savory profile.
  • Herbal Garnish Upgrade: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil on top to add brightness and elevate the dish's visual appeal and taste, introducing a crisp, green contrast to the heavy sauce.
  • Wine Alternative Pairing: Crisp white wine such as Chardonnay offers a refreshing counterpoint, its acidity balancing the creamy texture and helping cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Side Salad Enhancement: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a zesty, peppery accompaniment that cuts through the pasta's richness and adds nutritional balance.

Storage Tips for Creamy Alfredo Pasta

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cool the pasta completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Pack the pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or milk to restore moisture. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
  • Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce's creamy texture.

FAQs About Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

  • Is ground beef a good protein choice for this pasta dish?

Yes, ground beef adds rich flavor and protein, making the Alfredo pasta more satisfying and hearty.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta instead of fettuccine?

Absolutely! Penne, linguine, or rotini work great and will hold the creamy sauce nicely.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Try using lean ground beef, reducing cream quantity, or adding extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more nutrients.

  • What cheese works best if I don't have Parmesan?

Romano or Pecorino are excellent substitutes with similar sharp, salty characteristics that complement the creamy sauce.

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Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe


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4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Indulgent ground beef alfredo pasta delivers comfort straight from Italian kitchens, blending rich flavors with hearty ingredients. Cheesy, velvety sauce and perfectly seasoned beef create a luxurious dinner that satisfies deep hunger cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 g) ground beef

Vegetables:

  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Seasoning:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Pasta:

  • 8 ounces (226 g) fettuccine pasta

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high temperature and thoroughly brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles.
  2. Incorporate diced onions and minced garlic into the beef, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Gradually pour heavy cream into the skillet, allowing the mixture to gently simmer and develop rich flavors.
  4. Whisk Parmesan cheese into the simmering cream sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese completely melts and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
  5. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper throughout the sauce, ensuring even distribution of seasonings.
  6. Simultaneously, prepare fettuccine in a separate pot of boiling water, cooking until pasta reaches al dente consistency according to package guidelines.
  7. Drain the pasta thoroughly, then carefully transfer it into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce.
  8. Gently toss the pasta and sauce together, making sure each strand is evenly coated with the luxurious Alfredo mixture.
  9. Plate the pasta immediately while hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve directly from the skillet.

Notes

  • Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of this indulgent dish.
  • Consider using whole wheat fettuccine for added fiber and a more nutritious meal option.
  • Customize the heat by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk mixed with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative that still maintains a creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 684 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 490 mg
  • Fat: 47 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 140 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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