If you’re craving a comforting, rich dish that brings together hearty ground beef and luscious Alfredo sauce in a way that feels both indulgent and satisfying, this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe is going to become your new go-to. With tender pasta perfectly coated in a velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor from garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning, every bite tastes like a warm hug from your favorite meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises joy in every forkful and is wonderfully simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the key to making this dish shine. Each component plays a special role, whether it’s the creamy texture from the heavy cream, the savory depth from the ground beef, or the bright freshness of the parsley garnish.
- Pasta (12 ounces): Choose penne, fettuccine, or rotini for the perfect bite and sauce cling.
- Ground beef (1 pound): A rich, meaty base that adds satisfying heartiness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Provides aromatic depth and a subtle kick.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Creates a silky roux and enhances richness.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce into creamy perfection.
- Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): The star of smooth, luscious texture.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the creaminess just enough without losing flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and that iconic Alfredo taste.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings herbaceous notes to tie everything together.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a subtle, warming heat against the creaminess.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- Chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a bright pop of color and fresh herbal finish.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—tender but still with a bit of bite. This texture is key because it will hold up beautifully once tossed in the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon so that it’s evenly crumbly but juicy. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if necessary; this helps keep the sauce from being greasy while ensuring the beef remains flavorful.
Step 3: Add Garlic
After the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic directly to the skillet. Cook for just about a minute until fragrant, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. That garlic is what will deepen the flavor and create that irresistible aroma in your kitchen.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet and melt the butter on the other. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux. This mixture is your sauce base and will thicken the cream beautifully, giving it that silky texture we all love.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Milk
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free. As it heats, you’ll notice it begin to thicken—a sure sign your creamy Alfredo sauce is coming together perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Beef and Sauce
Mix the ground beef back into the sauce, then add grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until thick and luscious.
Step 7: Toss in the Pasta
Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and stir gently to coat every piece with that rich, creamy sauce. Give it a good toss so you end up with a harmonious mix of beef, pasta, and sauce in every bite.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top. This little touch adds a burst of color and freshness that balances the richness perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To make your dish even more inviting, garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few cracked black peppercorns. A scattering of chopped parsley or fresh basil adds a vibrant layer of freshness and color.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up every bit of that fantastic sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, complement the richness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra flair, serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few red pepper flakes on top for a subtle pop. You could also sprinkle toasted pine nuts for a crunchy contrast or mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an earthy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. As the sauce thickens in the fridge, the flavors meld even more—making reheated servings taste even better the next day.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta can sometimes alter the sauce texture, this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe can still be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or cream will help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Microwaving on medium power with a cover to retain moisture also works well for quick reheats.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne, fettuccine, and rotini work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with shells, rigatoni, or even spaghetti depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that the sauce clings best to pasta shapes with curves or ridges.
Is there a lighter version of this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for the heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and may not thicken as much, but it will still be delicious.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Adding steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh spinach provides extra nutrition, color, and texture. Toss them in along with the pasta to integrate seamlessly.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
Simply stir in a little more milk or cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much at once to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cooking the pasta al dente according to the package instructions is crucial. Drain it promptly and toss it with the sauce right away to avoid overcooking and ensure the perfect bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe that makes it both an everyday comfort and a crowd-pleaser. Its rich, smooth sauce combined with savory beef and tender pasta comes together in a way that feels effortlessly impressive. I encourage you to dive into the kitchen and try it yourself—once you do, it is sure to become a cherished favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Description
This creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta combines tender pasta with a rich and cheesy Alfredo sauce infused with savory ground beef and garlic. It’s a comforting and hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners, featuring a luscious sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with Italian herbs and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
Beef and Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Sauté the garlic: Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet. On the empty side, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the roux: On the empty side of the skillet, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add cream and milk: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine and season: Stir the ground beef into the cream sauce. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss with pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce and beef mixture.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can add steamed broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies and nutrition.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta to maintain a firm texture that holds up well in the sauce.
