Name: Ground Beef Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounces large elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta); 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup diced onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (divided); 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 (16-ounce) jar Alfredo sauce; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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I can’t tell you how grateful I am for simple, flavorful meals like this Ground Beef Alfredo! Life gets busy, and sometimes we just need something that’s both easy to whip up and satisfying enough to keep the whole family happy. This recipe delivers that and more, blending tender pasta, rich Alfredo sauce, and savory ground beef in a dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into this creamy, hearty delight that’s bound to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this quick and delicious Ground Beef Alfredo:

12 ounces large elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup diced onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 1/2 teaspoons salt (divided)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 (16-ounce) jar of Alfredo sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended)

How to Make Ground Beef Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by filling a large pot with water—about halfway full should be good (at least 4 cups). Bring the water to a rolling boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss in the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

With the ground beef still in the skillet, stir in the Italian seasoning, remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and diced onions. Let that cook for about 1-2 minutes, until the onions start to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release all that delicious flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Sauce and Pasta

Now, it’s time to stir in the Alfredo sauce. Let it simmer with the beef mixture for about 2-3 minutes until everything is well-heated and combined. Finally, pour the cooked pasta into the sauce and give it all a good stir.

Step 5: Serve!

For an extra burst of cheesy goodness, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This step is optional, but trust me, it’s worth it! Serve your Ground Beef Alfredo warm, and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors.

Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Ground Beef Alfredo

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 668 kcal
Carbohydrates: 68 g
Protein: 35 g
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Cholesterol: 92 mg
Sodium: 1175 mg
Sugar: 3 g

Helpful Tips

Season as you go: Don’t forget to taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially with salt and pepper.
Pasta water tip: You can reserve a little of the pasta cooking water before draining it, and stir it into the sauce if you need to thin it out a bit.
Brown the beef well: For extra flavor, let the beef develop a nice, golden-brown color before moving on to the next step.

Substitutions and Variations

Pasta options: While I used elbow macaroni, you can easily swap it out for penne, fettuccine, or whatever pasta you have on hand.
Ground beef alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken work great in this recipe if you want a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, you could substitute with cooked lentils or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Homemade Alfredo sauce: If you have the time, making your own Alfredo sauce is a game changer! A simple combination of butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a luxuriously creamy sauce.
Veggies: Feel free to add some veggies to make it even more wholesome. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Ground Beef Alfredo can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. Once cooled, store the Ground Beef Alfredo in an airtight container and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with Ground Beef Alfredo?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread would complement this dish perfectly. You could also pair it with roasted veggies for an extra pop of color and nutrition.

Storage Instructions

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

More Comforting Pasta Recipes to Try

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: A classic Alfredo dish with juicy chicken.
Cheesy Beef and Pasta Skillet: One-pan wonder with a cheesy, beefy twist.
Spaghetti Carbonara: A rich, egg-based pasta dish with pancetta.
Baked Ziti: The ultimate comfort food with layers of cheese and pasta.

There you have it—Ground Beef Alfredo, the perfect dish for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting and hearty. I’m sure you’ll love this simple yet flavorful meal! Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you, and if you tried any of the variations!