Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta—a dish that combines rich, velvety Alfredo sauce with perfectly seasoned ground beef and tender spaghetti. The creamy texture of the sauce, infused with garlic and parmesan, coats each strand of pasta, creating a luxurious bite every time. With the savory addition of ground beef, this dish transforms into a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

This recipe is a delicious twist on classic Alfredo pasta, bringing together simple ingredients to create something truly irresistible. The combination of butter, heavy cream, and cheese results in a luscious, homemade Alfredo sauce that perfectly complements the seasoned beef. Topped with fresh parsley and black pepper, every bite is packed with flavor, making this a go-to meal for pasta lovers.

Ingredients for Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
1 lb ground beef
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
¼ cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Lower the heat and gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Add red pepper flakes for a touch of spice (optional).

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix it into the sauce. Then, add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese and black pepper for added flavor. Enjoy your Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta!

Storage Instructions

To store leftover Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or heavy cream to restore its creamy consistency. Warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in 30-second intervals, mixing in between.

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy Alfredo sauce may separate when thawed, affecting the texture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~650
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

(Values are approximate and depend on portion size and specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well with this Alfredo sauce. Use your favorite pasta shape.

2. How can I make this dish lighter?

Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce calories and fat.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli make great additions. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.

4. How do I prevent my Alfredo sauce from getting too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much, add a bit of reserved pasta water, milk, or broth to loosen it up.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and beef in advance and store them separately. Reheat and mix with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.

6. What can I serve with this pasta?

Serve it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

7. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead?

Yes, but homemade Alfredo sauce tastes fresher and creamier. If using store-bought, warm it up and mix it with the cooked beef before adding the pasta.

8. What’s the best cheese for Alfredo sauce?

Freshly grated parmesan cheese is ideal. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it may not melt smoothly.