Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe

If you’ve been craving a rich, comforting dish that blends hearty flavors with creamy indulgence, this Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine perfectly seasoned ground beef mingling with sautéed veggies, all swimming in a luscious Alfredo sauce that coats tender pasta just right. It’s a warm hug on a plate, the kind of meal that makes any day instantly better. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be a dinner staple you’ll want to make over and over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the dish’s incredible layers of flavor, texture, and color. From aromatic spices to fresh vegetables and creamy cheese, everything works in harmony to create a dish that’s much greater than the sum of its parts.

• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that adds protein and savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a classic herbaceous punch that brightens the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances every ingredient.
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional): Adds a subtle spicy kick for those who enjoy a little heat.
• ½ cup diced onions: Provides sweetness and depth as they cook down.
• ½ cup diced green peppers: Adds crunch and a fresh pop of color.
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced: Delivers aromatic warmth that’s impossible to resist.
• 14.5 oz canned fire roasted diced tomatoes (drained): Infuses a smoky richness and lovely tomato texture.
• 1–2 cups broth (beef, vegetable, or chicken): Enhances flavor and helps build the sauce’s perfect consistency.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: The star ingredient that makes the Alfredo sauce irresistibly creamy.
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Echoes the herb notes right in the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional): Keeps the spice theme alive for a balanced heat.
• 8–10 oz pasta (linguine recommended): The perfect vessel for soaking up the sauce without losing texture.
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that ties everything together beautifully.

How to Make Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Season the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, perfect for transitioning from sauté to simmer. Add your ground beef and break it up with your spoon, letting it brown evenly while seasoning with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning if you’re feeling adventurous. This step is key for developing that savory foundation that will shine through every bite.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Once your beef is no longer pink, stir in the diced onions, green peppers, and minced garlic. Let these cook until the veggies soften and become fragrant, creating a delicious aroma that promises a hearty meal. The slight sweetness from the onions and the freshness of the peppers balance the richness of the beef perfectly.

Step 3: Add Fire Roasted Tomatoes

Next, toss in the drained fire roasted diced tomatoes. Their smoky flavor adds complexity and a subtle tang that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce to come. Give everything a good stir to combine the textures and tastes before removing the mixture from the pan. Drain any excess fat for a cleaner, more balanced flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce and Pasta

Using the same pan, pour in your broth and heavy whipping cream. Start with one cup of broth, adding more later if needed. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, seasoning again with Italian and Cajun seasonings, salt, and pepper to create a deeply flavorful base. Then add your pasta directly into this bubbling sauce. Let the pasta wilt and absorb those incredible flavors without the need to break the noodles.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish with Cheese

Reduce the heat to medium, cover the pot, and let the pasta simmer for 10–15 minutes until al dente, adding broth as needed to keep the noodles fully coated. Once done, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt perfectly into this lush sauce, making it thick, creamy, and irresistible.

Step 6: Combine and Cool

Finally, fold the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture back into the pasta and sauce. This step marries all the hearty and creamy elements for a gorgeous, comforting dish. Let it cool slightly before serving so the flavors really set into each bite.

How to Serve Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe

Garnishes

To boost visual appeal and add a fresh punch, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top. A few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese can also elevate each plate with a lovely nutty finish and that signature Alfredo shine.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, which bring balance by adding a light, fresh contrast. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is another fantastic choice to soak up any remaining creamy sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve your Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe in individual pasta bowls with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for guests who like it spicy. You can also layer it in a baking dish topped with extra cheese and broil just for a minute for a bubbly, golden crust that adds great texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so it tastes even better the next day as a quick lunch or dinner.

Freezing

This Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe freezes beautifully. Pop cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and keep them in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much. Stir continuously for even heating. You can also microwave individual servings but do so in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe?

Absolutely! While linguine works beautifully here, you can swap in fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or even shells depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Each pasta shape offers a slightly different texture and sauce cling.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily omit the ground beef and add more vegetables or plant-based protein like mushrooms, tofu, or a meat substitute to keep the rich, satisfying feel while enjoying a vegetarian twist.

Can I use half and half or milk instead of heavy cream?

Using half and half or milk will work, but keep in mind the sauce will be thinner and less creamy. Heavy cream ensures the saucy, velvety texture that makes this recipe so comforting and indulgent.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?

The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to moderate kick depending on how much you use. It’s completely optional and can be adjusted up or down based on your spice tolerance to customize the dish to your liking.

Should I drain the pasta before adding it to the sauce?

No need to drain the pasta for this recipe! Adding it directly to the simmering sauce allows the noodles to soak up all those fabulous flavors, resulting in a much more cohesive and delicious dish.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Alfredo Recipe is more than just a dinner; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish offers comfort and flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved favorite in your home.

Print