If you’re looking for a hearty dish that’s easy to make, Ground Beef Alfredo is perfect. It’s a mix of creamy sauce and savory ground beef. It’s great for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, capturing the essence of Comfort Food.
In just about 30 minutes, you can make a meal for up to six people. It’s perfect for any occasion.
Key Takeaways
- Ground Beef Alfredo combines creamy sauce with savory meat.
- Ready in approximately 30 minutes for quick meal preparation.
- Serves about six people, ideal for family dinners.
- Focus on using high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
- Customize with vegetables or alternative pasta for variety.
- A satisfying dish featuring a rich Alfredo sauce and classic pasta.
Introduction to Ground Beef Alfredo
Ground Beef Alfredo is a tasty twist on classic pasta dishes. It combines creamy Alfredo sauce with juicy ground beef. This dish is loved for its rich flavors and easy preparation, making it perfect for quick meals.
The Alfredo sauce’s roots are in Italy, where it’s made with butter, cream, and cheese. Adding ground beef makes it even more satisfying for meat fans. Families enjoy it for its taste and how easy it is to make.
When you make Ground Beef Alfredo, you get a meal full of nutrients. Each serving has about 739 kcal, with 48 grams of protein and 49 grams of carbs. Using lean ground beef keeps the dish healthy without losing flavor.
Ground Beef Alfredo is soon a favorite in your home. Serve it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a meal everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe
This Ground Beef Alfredo recipe is easy to make and tastes great for the whole family. It cooks in about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight.
The dish is a mix of juicy ground beef and creamy Alfredo sauce. Adding diced onions, garlic, and green peppers boosts the flavor and adds nutrients. It’s a great recipe for families because it can be made to suit different tastes.
This recipe serves up to five people and has about 650 calories per serving. It’s filling and balanced. You can also add veggies like broccoli or mushrooms to make it even better. This comforting dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
Key Ingredients for a Delicious Alfredo
To make a tasty Ground Beef Alfredo, knowing the key ingredients is crucial. Each part adds flavor and texture, making the dish a hit. Let’s explore the main ingredients that make this dish stand out.
Ground Beef
Ground beef is a great choice for Alfredo. Using 1 lb of lean ground beef (80-85% lean) balances flavor and richness. It makes the casserole hearty and full of taste.
Pasta Varieties
The pasta you choose affects the dish’s texture. You can pick from fettuccine, penne, or elbow macaroni. Each pasta has its own charm, letting you tailor the dish to your liking. One box of pasta is enough to hold the creamy sauce.
Cream and Cheese
Heavy cream is key for a rich sauce. With ½ cup of heavy cream and other dairy like 16 oz of cottage cheese and 4 oz of cream cheese, the sauce becomes creamy. Fresh Parmesan cheese adds flavor, making it better than pre-grated. These ingredients together create a luxurious taste that pairs well with the ground beef.
Preparing Your Ground Beef Alfredo
Making a tasty Ground Beef Alfredo requires two key parts: the ground beef and the Alfredo sauce. Knowing these steps will help you make a dish that’s both flavorful and filling, serving up to 8 people.
Cooking the Ground Beef
Start with the Ground Beef Preparation. Use a lean-to-fat ratio of 90/10 for a healthier choice. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break the meat apart, letting it brown evenly. This takes about 4-5 minutes.
Drain any extra fat before moving on. This step keeps the dish creamy without being greasy.
Creating the Alfredo Sauce
Now, let’s make the Alfredo Sauce. Begin by sautéing chopped onions and minced garlic in the skillet until they smell great. Then, deglaze the pan with 14 ounces of beef broth or a bit of white wine. This lets the flavors mix well.
Pour in 1 pint of heavy whipping cream and stir in 1½ cups of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. To make it thicker, add a cornstarch slurry made from 3 tablespoons of cornstarch and ¼ cup of water. This mix creates a rich sauce that goes well with the beef.
Steps to Cook Ground Beef Alfredo
Cooking Ground Beef Alfredo is a few simple steps away from a delicious meal. Follow these steps to keep the flavors right and enjoy the cooking. The mix of perfectly cooked pasta and creamy sauce makes a dish everyone will enjoy.
Boiling the Pasta
Begin by boiling the pasta as the package says, in salted water. Aim for an al dente texture for the best taste. Don’t forget to save some pasta water for later. It helps make the sauce smoother.
Combining the Ingredients
After the pasta is done, it’s time to mix everything together. Combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce in a big skillet. Mix gently so each pasta piece gets coated with the meat sauce. This step is key to a great Ground Beef Alfredo.
Adjusting Consistency
To get the sauce just right, you might need to tweak its texture. Add the saved pasta water slowly until it’s creamy. This trick makes sure the sauce sticks well to the pasta, making it even better to eat.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Boil the Pasta | Cook pasta in salted water until al dente, saving some water. |
| 2. Combine Ingredients | Mix cooked pasta with meat sauce in the skillet ensuring even coating. |
| 3. Adjust Consistency | Add pasta water as needed to achieve the right creaminess. |
Variations and Substitutions
Making Ground Beef Alfredo lets you try new flavors and textures. You can make it fit different diets and add your own twist. It’s a fun way to get creative in the kitchen.
Vegetarian Alternatives
Want a Vegetarian Alfredo? You can swap out the ground beef for something else. Try:
- Crumpled tofu for a protein-rich option.
- Lentils, providing a similar texture and added nutrition.
- Chopped mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
These changes keep the dish hearty and tasty, even without meat.
Creative Add-ins
Make your Ground Beef Alfredo even better with add-ins. These ingredients add nutrition, color, and flavor:
- Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, which provide crunch and essential vitamins.
- Bell peppers for a sweet and colorful addition.
- Spinach, adding a touch of green and a nutrient boost.
With these add-ins, your dish can please everyone. It’s perfect for any dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Improving your Ground Beef Alfredo experience is more than just the pasta. The right Pasta Sides and Dish Garnishing can make the meal better. It becomes more fun and looks great for everyone at the table.
Complementary Side Dishes
Choosing the right side dishes adds variety and balance. Think about these options:
- Garlic bread to soak up the rich Alfredo sauce.
- Simple salads made of mixed greens, which provide a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted vegetables such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, adding color and nutrition.
Garnishing Your Dish
Improving your Ground Beef Alfredo’s look is easy with Dish Garnishing. Use:
- Fresh parsley for a splash of color and fresh flavor.
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese, which complements the dish perfectly.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Crunchy exterior with a soft, buttery inside, perfect for dipping. |
| Simple Salad | Mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette provide freshness. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Crispy, caramelized veggies that add depth and flavor. |
| Grated Parmesan | A rich, salty addition enhancing the overall creaminess. |
| Fresh Parsley | A vibrant garnish that brightens the dish and adds a herbal note. |
These Serving Suggestions will make your meal complete and impress your guests. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Learning how to store and reheat leftovers can make Ground Beef Alfredo even better. Storing it right keeps the taste and texture fresh. For storing leftovers, put your pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay good for up to 5 days.
Reheating your pasta can be done in a few ways. Here are some tips for reheating pasta:
- Microwave: Heat on high for 1 to 1.5 minutes. Stir and check for heat, adding 15 seconds as needed. Adding a bit of water or sauce helps prevent drying.
- Stovetop: Sauté the pasta for about 2 to 5 minutes with a bit of olive oil. This keeps it from sticking.
- Oven: Bake at 350℉ covered with foil for 15 to 20 minutes. This method brings back the creamy texture.
- Boiling Water: Warm the leftover pasta in a colander with boiling water for 30 to 60 seconds.
Freezing is also an option for longer storage. Ground Beef Alfredo can be frozen for 2-3 months in a good container. This way, you can enjoy your favorite dish even later.
Tips for Perfecting Your Ground Beef Alfredo
Getting your Ground Beef Alfredo just right takes focus and a few key tips. Using Cooking Tips can make your dish better in taste and texture. Here are some tips to make your meal even more delicious.
Preventing a Greasy Sauce
To avoid a greasy sauce, choose lean ground beef. An 80/20 or 90/10 blend works well. After browning the beef, make sure to drain off any extra fat. This step is key to keeping your sauce smooth and creamy.
Enhancing Flavor
Adding subtle Flavor Enhancements can really boost your Alfredo sauce. Try using Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for depth. A bit of ground nutmeg can also add a nice aroma. Each of these ingredients helps create a rich, balanced flavor that makes your dish stand out.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| lean ground beef | 1 lb |
| small pasta shells | 12 oz |
| heavy cream | 2 ½ cups |
| butter | 2 tablespoons |
| garlic puree | 3 tablespoons |
| shredded parmesan cheese | ⅔ cup |
| seasoning (Italian, salt, pepper) | 1 tablespoon Italian, ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper |
Conclusion
Ground Beef Alfredo is a comforting dish perfect for busy lives. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it great for families. The creamy Alfredo sauce and ground beef make it a favorite at dinner.
This recipe serves four and is easy on the wallet, costing $2-3 per serving. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to meet different dietary needs. This makes Ground Beef Alfredo a favorite in many homes.
Adding your favorite vegetables or a fresh salad can make the meal even better. Whether you like to mix things up or stick to the classic, Ground Beef Alfredo is a warm and inviting choice for any night.