Indulge in a comforting and rich dish with this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta. A perfect balance of hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a luscious, homemade Alfredo sauce, this recipe is an easy yet satisfying meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and garlic-infused sauce makes every bite irresistibly delicious.
A Hearty and Creamy Pasta Dish
Creamy Alfredo pasta is already a crowd-pleaser, but adding ground beef takes it to another level. The beef adds depth and heartiness to the dish, making it a filling and protein-rich meal. The Alfredo sauce, made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats every piece of pasta perfectly, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great choice for a fast yet delicious meal.
- Rich and Flavorful – The creamy Alfredo sauce combined with seasoned ground beef creates a comforting and decadent dish.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this creamy, cheesy pasta.
- Customizable – You can easily add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a must-try for anyone who loves a creamy, savory pasta dish. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
To create this rich and comforting pasta dish, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to make a creamy, satisfying meal.
- 12 ounces penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
This pasta dish comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner. Follow these simple steps to achieve a rich and creamy texture with perfectly cooked pasta and flavorful ground beef.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix it into the Alfredo sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until well coated. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Add the Final Touches
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and cover the skillet for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.
This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is an easy, indulgent meal that’s packed with flavor. Enjoy it on its own or with a side of garlic bread for an extra comforting touch!
How Long to Cook Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
The cooking time for this dish is fairly quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated cooking times for each component:
- Pasta Cooking Time – Depending on the type of pasta, it typically takes 8-12 minutes to cook until al dente.
- Ground Beef Cooking Time – Browning ground beef takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the fat content.
- Alfredo Sauce Cooking Time – The sauce comes together in about 5 minutes, allowing the Parmesan cheese to melt and create a smooth texture.
- Final Simmering Time – Once combined, the pasta, beef, and sauce should simmer for about 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
In total, you can expect this dish to be ready in about 25-30 minutes from start to finish.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, this dish stores well and can be reheated easily for another delicious meal. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess.
- Freezer – You can freeze this pasta, but the sauce may slightly change in texture. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips for the Best Creamy Alfredo Pasta
To make sure your pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – Pre-packaged Parmesan may not melt as smoothly, so grating fresh cheese ensures a creamier sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more milk or pasta water to loosen it up.
- Customize with Add-ins – Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a satisfying, comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a favorite!
