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Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Sauté Garlic
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir to combine.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Mix Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the beef and sauce until everything is well coated. If desired, sprinkle in Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an added burst of flavor and color.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Dish
- Pasta Choice: While fettuccine and penne work beautifully, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or rotini.
- Cheese Options: For a richer flavor, consider adding a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella or Romano, alongside the Parmesan.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: To boost nutrition, add sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the dish for color and texture.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
Health Considerations
- Balanced Meal: While this dish is rich and indulgent, consider pairing it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
- Lighten Up: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, and use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
Conclusion
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings comfort to any table. Its creamy sauce and tender pasta make it a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness tonight!
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