Description
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
12 oz rotini or pasta of choice
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley
Preparation:
Cook rotini pasta until al dente; set aside.
Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain.
Sauté garlic, add cream, and simmer until thickened.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, mix in pasta and beef, and garnish with parsley.
Description:
Add a touch of freshness to your creamy Alfredo pasta with parsley! A hearty and delicious dinner your family will love.
#FreshFlavorFix
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta every time.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add a teaspoon of olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to reduce and thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and browned ground beef back to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pasta dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a vegetable boost, stir in a handful of fresh spinach with the sauce or serve with steamed broccoli on the side.
How-to Summary
To make Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta: cook pasta and brown beef separately. Create the sauce by simmering cream with sautéed garlic, then melting in Parmesan. Combine pasta and beef with the sauce, toss to coat, and garnish with fresh parsley for a quick, family-friendly dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. While rotini holds sauce well, penne, fettuccine, or farfalle are excellent alternatives.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich and thick. You can also use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
Why is my sauce grainy or separating? This often happens if the heat is too high when adding the cheese, causing it to “break.” Always add Parmesan off the direct heat or on very low heat, and ensure it’s finely grated, not pre-shaken from a canister.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The dish is best served fresh. If reheating, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
What can I use instead of fresh parsley? Fresh basil, chives, or a pinch of dried Italian seasoning are good substitutes, though fresh parsley offers the brightest flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook pasta only to al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: These products contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always grate your own cheese from a block.
- Rushing the Sauce: Let the cream simmer gently to thicken before adding cheese. Adding cheese to a too-thin sauce results in a weak flavor.
- Skipping Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.
Conclusion
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory beef with a luxurious, cheesy sauce. It’s a straightforward, one-pan recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will become a regular in your dinner rotation. The fresh parsley garnish is the essential final touch, adding a burst of color and freshness that perfectly balances the rich, creamy base.