I love making this creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta when I want something comforting, filling, and easy to prepare. It combines rich Alfredo sauce, tender pasta, and savory ground beef into one satisfying dish that always feels like a cozy dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy days. I can make it with pantry staples, and it’s hearty enough to feed the whole family. The creamy sauce coats every bite of pasta, and the ground beef adds a satisfying depth of flavor that makes this dish extra comforting.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or bowtie)
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Italian seasoning, to taste
Fresh parsley, optional for garnish
Directions
I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then I drain it and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, then I drain any excess fat.
I add the butter and minced garlic to the beef and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant.
Next, I pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently while letting the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
I gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
I season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
Finally, I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Servings And Timing
I usually make this recipe to serve 4 people.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes, so I can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes total.
Variations
I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground chicken or Italian sausage when I want a different flavor.
I like adding mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra texture and nutrition.
For a spicy twist, I mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, I add a splash of milk or cream and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I Use A Different Type Of Pasta?
I often use penne or rigatoni, but any short pasta that holds sauce well works perfectly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?
I can make it ahead, but I prefer serving it fresh since the sauce is creamiest right after cooking.
How Do I Keep The Alfredo Sauce From Getting Too Thick?
I stir in a little milk or pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Freeze This Pasta?
I usually avoid freezing it because cream-based sauces can change texture when thawed.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
I like serving it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
I enjoy making creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta because it’s comforting, rich, and incredibly easy to prepare. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to when I want a satisfying homemade meal that everyone loves.
This creamy ground beef Alfredo pasta is a cozy, satisfying dish made with tender pasta, rich Alfredo sauce, and savory ground beef. It’s a simple, family-friendly recipe that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or bowtie)
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Italian seasoning, to taste
Fresh parsley, optional for garnish
Instructions
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add butter and garlic to the skillet with beef. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and milk, and stir. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and mix until fully coated.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens too much while standing.
For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste.
