Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe

Picture this: a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce coating tender pasta shells, with savory ground beef in every bite. This ground beef Alfredo is one of those recipes that feels like a cozy hug after a long day. It’s quick, easy to make, and brings together the comforting flavors of classic Alfredo with the heartiness of ground beef. If you’re looking for a weeknight dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and a little different from the usual pasta, you’ve found it.

this RECIPE

A warm family favorite

I still remember the first time I made this for my family on a busy weeknight. I had ground beef thawed out but wanted something a bit more indulgent than spaghetti or meatloaf. With a bit of heavy cream, butter, and pasta shells, I threw together what I thought would be a simple dinner—but it was a total hit! My family practically licked their plates clean. Since then, this ground beef Alfredo has become a staple in our household, especially on nights when we crave something hearty and comforting without a ton of fuss.

What makes ground beef Alfredo unique?

Traditional Alfredo sauce is made with just a few ingredients: butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. But with the addition of ground beef, this dish transforms into a full, hearty meal that’s as satisfying as it is creamy. The small pasta shells are perfect for catching the rich sauce, and the Italian seasoning adds an aromatic touch that brings the flavors together beautifully. It’s like a one-pan pasta-meets-casserole situation—easy to cook and even easier to love.

Key ingredients that make it so delicious

Let’s talk ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the flavor and texture of this dish.

• Ground beef: Adds heartiness and flavor. I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy. If you want to mix things up, you could try ground turkey or chicken.
• Butter: This adds richness and a touch of silkiness to the sauce. If you need a dairy-free option, a plant-based butter can work, but it won’t be quite as creamy.
• Garlic puree: This brings in a mellow, sweet garlic flavor without the need to chop fresh garlic. You can use minced garlic if you prefer, or even garlic powder in a pinch.
• Heavy cream: The backbone of any good Alfredo sauce, heavy cream makes this sauce luxuriously smooth. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you could try half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds depth. If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a mix of dried basil and oregano will still do the trick.
• Parmesan cheese: This is key for that authentic Alfredo taste. Freshly shredded Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a velvety finish.

Kitchen gear: What you’ll need to get started

For this recipe, you don’t need anything too fancy—just a few essentials that make the cooking process easier.

• Large skillet: A large nonstick skillet is perfect for cooking the ground beef and building the sauce. If you don’t have nonstick, be prepared to stir more frequently to prevent sticking.
• Pot for pasta: A medium-sized pot works well for boiling the pasta shells. You’ll want plenty of water to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For breaking up the ground beef and stirring the sauce. A sturdy spoon or spatula will make it easier to crumble the beef as it cooks.
• Colander: For draining the pasta. If you don’t have one, you can use a slotted spoon to scoop out the pasta.

Step-by-step: How to make ground beef Alfredo

Ready to make this deliciously creamy pasta? Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal on the table in no time.

1. Cook the pasta shells: Begin by cooking your pasta shells according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to salt your pasta water! Once the shells are cooked to al dente, drain them and set aside.
2. Cook the ground beef: While the pasta is cooking, grab your skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and start breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Keep crumbling and stirring until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink.
3. Add butter and garlic: Now, toss in the butter and garlic puree. Stir everything together until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant. This will create a great base for the sauce with that delicious garlic aroma.
4. Make the Alfredo sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, then add the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir it all together, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to cook for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet. Stir well, ensuring every shell gets coated in that creamy sauce. You’ll see the pasta soak up some of the sauce as you stir.
6. Add Parmesan and finish: Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes extra creamy and luscious. Your ground beef Alfredo is ready to serve!

Mix it up: Fun variations to try

Want to put your own twist on this ground beef Alfredo? Here are a few ideas to experiment with:

• Vegetable boost: Add some spinach, broccoli, or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Stir in the veggies just before adding the pasta so they cook through but still keep their bright color.
• Gluten-free option: Swap the pasta shells with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, so this change is super simple.
• Low-carb version: Try this recipe with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta. The Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with these lower-carb alternatives.
• Spicy kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when you add the Italian seasoning, or top with a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese blend: While Parmesan is classic, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a different flavor profile. Mozzarella adds a nice stretchiness, while Gouda will bring a smoky touch.

How to serve and make it look fancy

Serve this ground beef Alfredo straight from the skillet for a rustic feel, or plate it individually for a more polished look. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves for color. A side of garlic bread and a simple green salad (maybe with a tangy vinaigrette) make perfect companions for this creamy dish.

For a bit of crunch, add a few toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top. It brings a delightful texture contrast and looks beautiful.

Best drinks to pair with it

Creamy pasta dishes like this one go wonderfully with refreshing drinks. Here are a few pairing ideas to try:

• Sparkling lemonade: The tartness of lemonade helps balance out the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
• Iced tea: A classic unsweetened iced tea or a light herbal tea pairs well and won’t overpower the flavors.
• Cucumber mint cooler: Cucumber and mint make a light, hydrating drink that refreshes your palate between bites.
• Cranberry spritzer: Mix cranberry juice with sparkling water for a bubbly, slightly tart drink. It’s a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.

Storing and reheating leftovers

This dish makes for tasty leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it so it’s just as good the next day.

• Storage: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta in a skillet and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The added liquid helps revive the sauce, making it creamy again. You can also microwave it, but stir halfway through for even heating.

Scaling the recipe up or down

If you’re cooking for a crowd, you can easily double this recipe. Just make sure you have a large enough skillet to hold everything! If you’re cooking for one or two, you can cut the ingredients in half—just keep an eye on the cooking times, as smaller portions may cook faster.

Troubleshooting: Common issues and tips

• Sauce too thick: If your sauce ends up too thick, add a bit more cream or milk to thin it out.
• Sauce too thin: Let it simmer a little longer or add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan to help it thicken.
• Too salty: If you find the dish too salty, add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance it out, or stir in a small splash of milk to mellow the flavors.

Give it a try and make it your own!

There’s something so satisfying about a creamy, flavorful pasta dish, especially one that comes together so easily. I hope you’ll try this ground beef Alfredo and enjoy every indulgent bite! It’s a versatile recipe that you can adapt to your tastes, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Whether it’s for a family dinner or just a cozy meal for one, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! While small shells are great for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you like.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.
3. Can I freeze this dish? Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, as they can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated from the fridge.
4. What’s a good substitute for Parmesan cheese? Pecorino Romano works well, though it has a sharper flavor. You could also try a mild cheddar for a different twist.
5. How do I make it less creamy? If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream and add a bit of chicken broth.

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