Ground Beef Alfredo

Ground Beef Alfredo is a creamy pasta recipe made with ground beef, shell pasta, heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. This easy homemade Alfredo pasta delivers rich, comforting flavor in a quick one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

This ground beef pasta dish combines tender pasta with a smooth, cheesy Alfredo sauce for a hearty family dinner. Ideal for meal prep, simple dinner ideas, and budget-friendly cooking, it’s a filling recipe that uses everyday ingredients while delivering restaurant-style taste at home.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 10 ounces small shell pasta (about ¾ of a 16-ounce box)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10 recommended)

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 1½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta according to the package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
2. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease if needed.
4. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Cook gently, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the sauce.
6. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until melted and incorporated into the creamy Alfredo sauce.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until every shell is coated in the rich sauce.
8. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with hearty ground beef.
• Made with simple ingredients that are easy to find.
• Ready in about 30 minutes for a quick family dinner.
• One-pan sauce keeps cleanup simple.
• Kid-friendly and perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comfort food that works for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

---

Tips

• Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming soft when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve the pasta water before draining—it helps create a silky, smooth sauce.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
• Keep the heat low when making the Alfredo sauce to prevent separation.
• Stir frequently to maintain a creamy texture.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
• Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or peas for extra vegetables.
• Use penne, rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine instead of shell pasta.
• Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer sauce.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Mix in cooked bacon for additional smoky flavor.

---

FAQs

Can I make Ground Beef Alfredo ahead of time?

Yes. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can, but cream-based sauces may separate slightly after thawing. Stir well while reheating for the best texture.

What is the best ground beef to use?

Lean ground beef such as 90/10 works well because it provides flavor without excessive grease.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

Yes, although freshly grated Parmesan typically melts more smoothly into the sauce.

---

Serving Suggestions

Pair Ground Beef Alfredo with:

• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Caesar salad
• Roasted broccoli
• Steamed green beans
• Sautéed spinach
• Roasted asparagus
• Fresh garden salad

---

Suggestions

• Top with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper before serving.
• Add fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve alongside warm crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Turn leftovers into a baked pasta dish by topping with mozzarella and baking until bubbly.
• Double the recipe for meal prep or larger family gatherings.